Ex-editor claims liberal bias caused loss of government funding for NPR

NPR Whistleblower’s Critique Sparks Controversy Over Bias

A former NPR editor, Uli Berliner, recently expressed concerns about the network’s shift towards what he describes as “fringe progressivism.” In an op-ed published on Thursday, Berliner suggested that this ideological tilt is partly to blame for a recent funding cancellation announced by Congress.

He characterized this funding loss as a kind of “self-harm scar,” stating that NPR’s commitment to a progressive agenda has undermined its credibility as a neutral news source, thereby reducing its eligibility for government support.

Berliner left NPR in April, a resignation linked to conflicts over approval for his writings on controversial topics. He criticized his former employer for its handling of significant issues, including the investigations into Russian interference, the Hunter Biden laptop matter, and the origins of COVID-19.

Senators and House Republicans recently approved a budget plan that cuts over $1 billion in federal funding for broadcasts. Berliner noted that during his 25 years at NPR, he witnessed a stark shift in audience demographics. The previously balanced mix of liberal, moderate, and conservative listeners has, according to him, tilted significantly to the left.

In his view, NPR has essentially become a product primarily catering to affluent audiences in urban and academic areas, neglecting moderate and conservative listeners. Berliner hopes for a return to traditional journalistic principles at NPR, as he argues that any media entity should be accountable to its audience while still respecting its First Amendment rights.