Today, the White House formally submitted a rescission request to Congress, seeking to revoke more than $9.4 billion in already-approved federal funds. Included in this request is $1.1 billion designated for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) for Fiscal Years 2026 and 2027. This move triggers a 45-day countdown in which Congress must decide whether to act on the proposal. In the meantime, we need your support more than ever.
For over 50 years, CPB has been a lifeline for public media, distributing federal funds to local stations like WAMU. These funds support critical operations, programming, technology infrastructure, and music licensing—essentials that benefit a network of over 1,100 public radio and television stations across the country.
This funding is especially crucial for small, rural, and tribal stations, many of which serve as the only freely accessible media source in their regions and play a vital role in emergency communications.
What Does This Mean for WAMU?
While CPB funds make up about 4% of WAMU’s annual revenue, the potential loss is far-reaching. As other public media stations grapple with budget shortfalls and rising costs, the strain will be felt throughout the network—and eventually, by listeners like you.
WAMU also generates around 10% of its revenue from licensing fees tied to our nationally distributed program, 1A, carried by more than 400 stations through NPR. Many of those stations rely on CPB funding to pay for 1A. If those funds disappear, it’s likely we’ll see decreased income from licensing, even as we face higher costs for programs we air locally—like Morning Edition, Marketplace, and All Things Considered.
Will This Hurt WAMU? Yes—but We’re Preparing
We’re taking proactive steps to adapt. Our leadership has been closely monitoring federal policy changes and is already planning for how to navigate potential budget constraints.
However, the ripple effects of CPB cuts will be unpredictable and widespread. Public media programs are created across the country—Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me from WBEZ in Chicago, Fresh Air from WHYY in Philadelphia, and many more. As those stations adjust to lost funding, the programming landscape for all public media outlets, including WAMU, will inevitably change.
What Won’t Change? Our Commitment to You
Through decades of national change and local transformation, WAMU has remained a trusted source of news, conversation, and connection in Washington, D.C., since our first broadcast in 1961. That commitment remains unwavering.
We are expanding our award-winning newsroom to deepen coverage of Maryland, arts and culture, and regional stories that matter most to our community. We’re forming new partnerships, investing in smarter distribution methods, and exploring technology improvements to ensure we remain strong and resilient.
The uncertainty surrounding federal policy may create instability, but one thing is certain: the needs of our community are growing—and so is our dedication to meeting them.
With your continued generous support, we will remain a constant and vital presence in this region, delivering the stories, music, and moments that bring us together.
