Article Summary –
Pennsylvania Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Perry has introduced a bill to eliminate all federal support for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and co-sponsored a bill to end federal funding for National Public Radio. Perry calls these entities biased and accuses them of pushing propaganda. This move comes amidst a tough re-election race for Perry, and at a time when polls show that a majority of American voters, including those identifying as Republicans, oppose defunding public television.
Scott Perry Moves to Cut Federal Support for Public Broadcasting
On April 17, Pennsylvania Republican U.S. Rep. Scott Perry launched a bill to terminate federal support for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). Perry, a House Freedom Caucus member who backed Trump’s efforts to overturn Biden’s election win, also endorsed a bill to halt federal funding for National Public Radio.
The controversial politician is currently locked in a challenging reelection against Democrat Janelle Stelson. “Perry’s seat is surely veering towards the swing-district category,” stated James Lee, a Harrisburg-based pollster, on April 26.
Public Opinion on Public Broadcasting
Republican lawmakers have often sought to cut federal funding for NPR and PBS, despite a 2017 poll showing 73% of voters opposing such actions. Perry’s bill, the No Propaganda Act, alleges bias by the CPB.
“The American Taxpayer is subsidizing a biased media corporation,” Perry stated. He further suggested that the CPB should find sponsors and raise money independently, in an April 24 radio interview.
Public Trust in PBS and NPR
Despite Perry’s claims, surveys have indicated that Americans view PBS and NPR as trusted news sources. A 2023 PBS survey revealed that 74% of adults considered PBS the country’s most reliable government or media institution.
Despite the Democratic Senate majority and President Biden’s support for public broadcasting, Perry’s proposals could potentially impact Pennsylvania if enacted. Pennsylvania PBS estimates approximately 12.4 million viewers across the state.
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