President Donald J. Trump on Thursday reportedly issued a stark ultimatum to Republican senators: support the push to eliminate federal funding for public broadcasting, or risk losing his endorsement.
The message, delivered via a post on Trump’s social media platform, reflects his increasing influence over GOP policymaking in an election year and highlights his ongoing efforts to align the party with his populist priorities.
“It is very important that all Republicans adhere to my rescissions bill,” Trump wrote. “DEFUND THE CORPORATION FOR PUBLIC BROADCASTING (PBS and NPR)… Any Republican that votes to allow this monstrosity to continue broadcasting will not have my support or endorsement.”
The proposal, part of a larger rescissions package passed narrowly by the House, would revoke $1.1 billion in funding for PBS and NPR, while also cutting billions from foreign aid programs. The Senate is set to vote on the measure next week.
The legislation has already sparked division within the party. Several Republican senators from rural states have expressed concern about the impact of defunding public broadcasting, particularly on small, local radio stations that serve as vital communication networks in underserved areas.
Senator Mike Rounds of South Dakota raised alarm over the potential harm to tribal radio stations, calling the proposed cuts “dangerous and shortsighted.”
Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska echoed that sentiment, warning that remote communities would be disproportionately affected.
The funding fight reflects a broader tension within the party — between fiscal conservatives aligned with Trump’s aggressive spending rollback and more traditional Republicans who support federal investments in public services.
Despite the backlash, the Trump campaign has doubled down, arguing that public broadcasters have long leaned left and that taxpayers should not be forced to subsidize political content they disagree with.
The Senate vote, expected before July 18, will serve as a critical test of Trump’s sway within the party and whether his hardline stance on spending can override the concerns of more moderate Republicans.
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