NPR Accused of Bias, Editorial Influence by Donors and DEI Standards

Senator Ted Cruz has accused National Public Radio (NPR) of allowing wealthy, left-leaning donors and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) standards to influence its editorial decisions, jeopardizing its objectivity and balance.

Senator Ted Cruz, Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, has sent a letter to NPR CEO Katherine Maher, demanding assurances that the newsroom's editorial decisions are not influenced by wealthy donors or DEI standards.

NPR Accused of Bias, Editorial Influence by Donors and DEI Standards

Cruz's concerns stem from the fact that NPR receives funding from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), which in turn receives federal funding. However, NPR also accepts donations from private individuals and organizations.

According to Cruz, the timing and content of certain NPR articles appear to align with earmarked donations from left-wing nonprofits with specific agendas. He cited several examples to support this claim.

NPR Accused of Bias, Editorial Influence by Donors and DEI Standards

"The timing and content of certain NPR articles align with earmarked, multi-million-dollar donations from left-wing nonprofits looking to advance their own narratives in the press," wrote Cruz in his letter.

NPR has denied any allegations of editorial influence by donors or DEI standards, stating that its newsroom is "independent and free from outside influence." However, Cruz maintains that NPR has strayed from its ethos of impartial journalism.

NPR Accused of Bias, Editorial Influence by Donors and DEI Standards

"NPR has strayed far from its ethos of ‘independent journalism in the public interest’ by allowing its liberal donors to buy desired ‘news’ coverage," said Cruz.

Cruz's allegations follow recent criticism from former NPR editor Uri Berliner, who accused the organization of biased coverage in an essay published in the Free Press.

NPR Accused of Bias, Editorial Influence by Donors and DEI Standards

In response to Berliner's essay and the ongoing scrutiny, Republican lawmakers have threatened to cut funding for CPB, which would indirectly impact NPR.

NPR has faced renewed criticism, with some accusing it of losing its objectivity and becoming a mouthpiece for liberal causes. However, NPR maintains its commitment to unbiased reporting.

The ongoing debate over NPR's editorial independence highlights the challenges faced by public media in maintaining impartiality while meeting the financial needs of the organization.