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We are currently experiencing attacks from the Trump administration and members of Congress who want to cut funding for the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) and National Public Radio (NPR) and its local affiliate, Minnesota Public Radio (MPR). PBS and NPR have each been rated as one of the most trustworthy network resources available for news and public affairs. [foundation.pbs.org/pbs-fast-facts]

That is because they deliver free local news, quality programming and fact-based journalism. This is done without corporate or political agendas, as they are required by law to be objective. [cbp.org./aboutpb/act]

For many communities, rural areas in particular, PBS and NPR are the resources that keep individuals informed about the world around them. Federal funding makes up half or more of the budget for some of these smaller rural stations. By attempting to defund these resources, Americans, particularly those in smaller and rural communities, are in danger of being deprived of invaluable information. It is a threat to free speech and the right to be informed.

In addition to news sources, public television and radio also provide important cultural services, such as children’s programming, like Sesame Street. It also provides science and history programs, such as Nova and American Experience. There are trusted news programs, such as PBS Newshour. There are also programs dealing with mental health and wellness issues.

That is why President Trump is targeting public broadcasting. He knows that an informed public with access to independent journalism is a strong defense against the manipulation, disinformation and propaganda that his administration is striving for. You can help make a difference to make sure that public broadcasting continues to provide the same access to important information that it has provided for years.

Contact your representatives and ask them to help support PBS and NPR. They can be reached at:

• Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D) 202-224-3244 or toll free at 1-888-224-9043

• Sen. Tina Smith (D) 202-224-5641

• Rep. Brad Finstad (R- CD1) 202-225-2472

You can also leave a comment for the White House Tuesday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 202-456-1111 or 202-456-1414

Another way to help make a difference is to become a member of both local PBS and MPR stations.

You can become a member at many different levels of support.

Minnesota PBS — KSMQ.org; KSMQ TV, Channel 15 in Austin

Iowa PBS — iowapbs.org; KYIN TV, Channel 24 in Mason City

Minnesota Public Radio (MPR) — support.mpr.org; 90.1 FM radio, Austin

Iowa Public Radio (IPR) — iowapublicradio.org; 91.5 FM radio, Mason City/Clear Lake

It is our right as informed citizens to have access to fair and accurate resources.

Jeff Kopseng
Albert Lea