Trump’s FCC Investigates NPR and PBS Stations Over Sponsorship Practices. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), under new Chairman Brendan Carr, has launched an investigation into the sponsorship practices of NPR and PBS member stations, raising concerns over potential violations of federal law regarding advertising.
In a letter obtained by CNN, Carr expressed concern that NPR and PBS may be airing commercials disguised as underwriting announcements, which would violate FCC rules. He pointed out that the stations, operating with licenses that classify them as non-commercial educational broadcasters, are prohibited from airing advertisements.
The investigation will examine NPR and PBS’s underwriting announcements and policies at their 1,500 member stations. Both organizations defended their compliance with FCC regulations, with NPR CEO Katherine Maher stating confidence in their adherence to the rules, and PBS also emphasizing its commitment to FCC standards.
Carr’s investigation has broader implications, as he sent the letter to congressional lawmakers, questioning whether taxpayer funding for NPR and PBS is justifiable if the stations are potentially airing commercial content. He suggested that if taxpayer money is supporting a for-profit endeavor or the airing of ads, it could undermine the case for continued funding.
The probe recalls President Trump’s previous criticisms of news organizations, as the FCC chair has reversed decisions made by his predecessor that dismissed complaints against local broadcast stations. Trump’s stance against media outlets has been ongoing, and his administration has often targeted news organizations he disagrees with.
The investigation’s outcome may influence ongoing debates in Congress regarding funding for NPR and PBS, with Carr stating that it could be relevant to legislative discussions on whether to continue taxpayer subsidies for these networks.
