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The Threat to Public Media: An Urgent Call to Action

On July 18, 2025, the National Press Club President Mike Balsamo delivered a statement addressing the troubling decision by the House of Representatives to end federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). This move has raised significant concerns among those devoted to the preservation of journalism, particularly in underserved communities where public media plays a crucial role.

The Impact of Funding Cuts

Public media serves as a vital source of trustworthy news and information for millions of Americans, especially in rural areas with little access to other media outlets. Local public radio and television stations are more than just news sources; they are lifelines that provide essential public safety alerts, critical health information, and coverage of local governance and elections. With this funding cut, the National Press Club emphasizes that many communities may soon find themselves in news deserts, where reliable journalism becomes scarce or entirely absent.

Balsamo's statement highlighted that this congressional decision is not merely a financial maneuver—it's a direct attack on local journalism. He pointed out that when funding is slashed, the resulting loss of access to public media significantly impacts the ability of these communities to remain informed. The void left by the disappearance of local news could undermine public safety and civic engagement, as citizens will lack the resources needed to hold those in power accountable.

A Pillar of Democracy

The right to quality journalism is intimately tied to the democratic process. Balsamo urged that journalism should not be perceived as a luxury but rather as a fundamental public good integral to maintaining democracy. With today's technological advancements and social media's influence, it has become increasingly challenging for citizens to distinguish reliable sources of information from misinformation. Public media acts as a countermeasure against this trend, offering researched and factual news reporting that is crucial for informed democratic participation.

Balsamo's message serves as a clarion call: without public media, the platforms that engage communities and foster informed discourse will erode. Public safety, civic participation, and democracy itself hinge upon the existence of sources that provide trustworthy information.

The Call to Action

In response to the looming threat, the National Press Club implores lawmakers to reconsider their stance and to act decisively to reverse these funding cuts before more communities lose access to critical news resources. Without a concerted effort to restore funding for public media, many Americans stand to lose the essential connection to their communities and the news that matters most to them.

Founded in 1908, the National Press Club remains a leading advocate for journalists and freedom of the press. With over 2,500 members, the organization emphasizes the importance of press freedom not only in the United States but also on a global scale. It stands firm in its belief that a free press is vital to holding power accountable and enabling citizens to participate fully in a thriving democracy.

This recent congressional vote should prompt all stakeholders—including citizens and lawmakers—to reflect on the value of public media and the role it plays in society. As funding disappears, so too does the promise of informed communities and the democratic ideals that undergird American society. Now is the time to advocate for journalism that upholds these principles, ensuring that every citizen has access to trustworthy information, no matter where they live or how much they earn.

For media inquiries, contact Bill McCarren at the National Press Club.

Conclusion

As we navigate the complexities of the modern media landscape, we must rally around institutions like public media. Their value cannot be overstated—they are the bedrock of civil society, ensuring that citizens remain informed and engaged. It is crucial to stand up for the necessary funding and support that these outlets require to continue their indispensable work. The fight for journalism is, ultimately, a fight for democracy.