Documentary filmmaker Ken Burns, known for his work with PBS, criticized Congress for cutting $1.1 billion in federal funding for public broadcasting.
“I think we’re all in a bit of shock,” he remarked on Friday.
“What’s really shortsighted is that these cuts mostly impact rural communities; they’re the ones who will feel it the hardest,” he added.
The previous Thursday, the Republican-led House passed a bill aimed at reimbursing public media federal funds, which is now on President Trump’s desk. He’s expected to sign it, marking another legislative win for the administration.
Burns has produced more than 40 documentaries for PBS, with about 20% of their funding coming from the government. He expressed concern for others in the industry, noting that some projects relied on government funding for as much as 75% of their budget.
He also pointed out the effects on small local news stations throughout the country.
“PBS stations are akin to public libraries, especially in those smaller rural areas. They play a vital role, providing access to local news and covering city council meetings,” Burns explained.
Reports from local news and Muckrack indicate that local media is struggling, with smaller American outlets being hit particularly hard. Even major city stations depend on federal support.
Getting the bill passed faced significant resistance in Congress, with several Republicans—including Senate Budget Speaker Susan Collins and Sen. Lisa Murkowski—voicing their objections.
Some colleagues claim the cuts target “radical left-wing organizations,” but Murkowski countered that in Alaska, these are merely community-focused groups.
Conversely, some staunch Maga Republicans view this as a victory, labeling PBS and NPR as biased.
Speaker Mike Johnson stated, “This, in our view, is a misuse of taxpayer dollars. Their reports aren’t objective; they pretend to be, but they aren’t. There’s no reason for public funding.”
Despite the funding loss, Burns affirmed he would continue his projects. “We have to adapt and find ways to make it work; I’m sure it’s going to involve extra effort,” he said regarding the financial challenges ahead.
