PBS and Northern Minnesota Public TV (Lakeland PBS) have filed a federal lawsuit against former President Donald Trump, challenging his May 1, 2025 executive order that seeks to halt federal funding to public broadcasters. The suit argues the order is both unconstitutional and a violation of First Amendment protections.
Legal Pushback Against Trump’s Media Cuts
This legal action, filed in Washington, D.C., comes just days after NPR launched a similar lawsuit. PBS is seeking injunctive and expedited relief, contending that the President’s attempt to defund public broadcasting over alleged “left-wing propaganda” oversteps his constitutional authority.
“Regardless of any policy disagreements over the role of public television, our Constitution and laws forbid the President from serving as the arbiter of the content of PBS’s programming,” the 51-page lawsuit states.
Filed by the prestigious Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld law firm, the suit names not only Trump but also high-ranking federal officials such as Russell Vought (OMB), Scott Bessent (Treasury), Kristi Noem (Homeland Security), and Linda McMahon (Education).
The Stakes: $500 Million and Public Trust
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) receives approximately $500 million annually from the federal government—representing about 15% of PBS’s operating budget. While PBS also depends on corporate and private donations, the loss of federal funding could severely hinder its nationwide programming efforts.
PBS defends its credibility by referencing a YouGov survey, which found it to be the most trusted media institution in the U.S., outperforming commercial TV, streaming platforms, and even government institutions.
Protecting Free Speech and Public Access
The complaint frames the executive order as a direct attack on freedom of speech and a violation of the checks and balances enshrined in American governance.
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“PBS and Lakeland PBS bring suit to preserve their ability to serve their viewers and communities without political interference, as both Congress and the First Amendment mandate,” the complaint asserts.
If allowed to proceed, the executive order would override Congress’s explicit decision to shield public broadcasting from political influence, the lawsuit warns. This could erode the ability of PBS to provide educational and cultural programming to millions of Americans.
Final Notes and Cultural Irony
The legal drama also touches on a deeper irony, referencing Downton Abbey, one of PBS’s flagship shows. The lawsuit even nods to a famous line from Dame Maggie Smith’s character, the Dowager Countess:
“It always happens when you give these little people power, it goes to their heads like strong drink.”
Awaiting White House Response
As of now, the White House has not responded to requests for comment regarding the PBS lawsuit. The battle over public broadcasting is clearly heating up, with major legal and political implications on the horizon.
