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WABE, GPB turn to their listeners after federal funding cuts to public media

Public Radio Stations in Georgia Mobilize Listeners Amid Threats to Federal Funding

In a concerted effort to safeguard the future of public broadcasting, two prominent Georgia-based stations—WABE in Atlanta and Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB)—have launched campaigns urging their listeners to advocate against proposed federal budget cuts. This move comes as the Trump administration's fiscal year 2018 budget proposal seeks to eliminate funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a vital lifeline for non-commercial media outlets across the nation. The stations, both affiliates of National Public Radio (NPR), are turning to their audiences not just for financial support but for political action, highlighting the broader implications of such cuts on local journalism, educational programming, and community outreach.

WABE, Atlanta's NPR station, has been particularly vocal in its response. Station officials have integrated on-air messages encouraging listeners to contact their congressional representatives. These pleas emphasize the role of federal funding in sustaining high-quality, independent journalism that might otherwise be absent from commercial airwaves. "Public radio is more than just entertainment; it's a public service that informs and educates," said a WABE spokesperson in a recent broadcast. The station's website now features a dedicated page with templates for emails and phone scripts, making it easier for supporters to voice their opposition. This grassroots approach mirrors strategies employed by public broadcasters nationwide, but in Georgia, it takes on a unique flavor given the state's political landscape, where Republican senators and representatives hold significant sway.

Similarly, GPB, which operates a network of radio and television stations serving the entire state, has amplified its messaging through both its radio and TV platforms. GPB's president and CEO, Teya Ryan, has publicly stated that the loss of CPB funding would force drastic reductions in programming, potentially affecting everything from local news coverage to children's educational shows like those produced in partnership with PBS. "We're not just fighting for our survival; we're fighting for the communities we serve," Ryan remarked in an interview. GPB has reported that federal funds account for about 10-15% of its annual budget, a figure that, while not the majority, is crucial for underwriting content that doesn't attract corporate sponsorships. Without it, stations like GPB might have to curtail operations in rural areas, where public broadcasting often serves as the primary source of reliable information.

The broader context of these campaigns stems from President Trump's budget blueprint, released earlier this year, which proposes zeroing out the $445 million allocated to the CPB. This entity distributes grants to over 1,500 public radio and television stations nationwide, including those in Georgia. Critics of the cuts argue that public broadcasting provides essential services, such as emergency alerts, diverse cultural programming, and in-depth reporting on issues like health, education, and the environment. Supporters of the administration's plan, however, contend that in an era of fiscal restraint, taxpayer dollars should not subsidize media that can seek private funding. This debate echoes previous attempts to defund public broadcasting, dating back to the Nixon era, but the current proposal represents one of the most aggressive challenges yet.

For WABE and GPB, the stakes are high. WABE, which reaches millions in the Atlanta metro area, relies on CPB grants to produce local content such as "Closer Look," a daily news program that delves into regional issues like transportation, politics, and social justice. Without federal support, the station might need to scale back such initiatives, potentially leading to job losses and reduced airtime for investigative journalism. GPB, with its statewide footprint, faces even broader challenges. It operates nine television stations and 18 radio stations, many in underserved rural communities where internet access is limited, making broadcast media a critical information conduit. Programs like "Georgia Outdoors" and educational series tied to state curricula could be jeopardized, impacting students and families who depend on them for learning resources.

Listener response has been robust, according to station reports. WABE has seen a surge in website traffic to its advocacy page, with thousands of users downloading contact information for Georgia's congressional delegation, including Senators Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, both Republicans. GPB has partnered with other public media organizations to host town halls and online forums, fostering discussions about the value of public broadcasting. One listener, a teacher from Savannah, shared in a call-in segment how GPB's programming supplements classroom education, stating, "In a time when fake news is everywhere, public radio is our trusted source." Such testimonials underscore the personal connections many Georgians have with these stations.

Beyond immediate advocacy, both stations are exploring long-term strategies to diversify funding. WABE has ramped up its membership drives, emphasizing that individual donations can help bridge potential gaps. GPB is investing in digital platforms, such as podcasts and streaming services, to attract younger audiences and new revenue streams. However, station leaders acknowledge that these efforts cannot fully replace federal support, which provides stability and enables risk-taking in programming that commercial outlets avoid.

The fight against defunding is not isolated to Georgia. Nationwide, NPR and PBS affiliates are mounting similar campaigns, with organizations like Protect My Public Media coordinating efforts. This coalition has mobilized over a million supporters to contact Congress, arguing that public broadcasting reaches 99% of Americans and is one of the most efficient uses of federal dollars, costing each taxpayer about $1.35 annually. In Georgia, the push has gained traction among bipartisan groups, with some conservative listeners appreciating the stations' balanced coverage of local issues.

Historically, attempts to cut CPB funding have often been thwarted by public outcry and congressional intervention. For instance, in 2011, during budget battles under President Obama, similar proposals were scaled back after widespread advocacy. WABE and GPB are banking on a repeat of that scenario, but with a Republican-controlled Congress and White House, the outcome remains uncertain. As the budget process unfolds— with hearings and amendments expected in the coming months— these stations are preparing for all possibilities, including contingency plans for reduced operations.

The campaigns also highlight the evolving role of public media in a polarized society. In an age of media fragmentation, where echo chambers dominate, public broadcasters like WABE and GPB strive to offer fact-based, inclusive content. They cover stories that bridge divides, from urban development in Atlanta to agricultural challenges in south Georgia. Losing federal funding could exacerbate information deserts, particularly in rural areas, where access to diverse viewpoints is already limited.

Community leaders have weighed in on the issue. Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed has voiced support for WABE, noting its contributions to civic discourse. Rural advocates, including those from the Georgia Farm Bureau, have praised GPB for its coverage of agricultural news and weather, which directly impacts livelihoods. Even some business leaders, who might typically favor budget cuts, recognize the economic value of public media in workforce development through educational programming.

As the advocacy intensifies, WABE and GPB are not just defending their budgets; they're defending a public good. Their calls to action remind listeners that public broadcasting is a shared resource, funded by and for the people. Whether through emails, phone calls, or social media shares, Georgians are being encouraged to make their voices heard in Washington. The outcome of this battle could reshape the landscape of American media, determining whether public stations continue to thrive or face an uncertain future.

In the meantime, both stations continue to broadcast undeterred, producing the content that has earned them loyal followings. From morning news shows to evening cultural programs, they embody the mission of public service media. As one GPB listener put it, "This isn't about politics; it's about preserving something that makes our democracy stronger." With the federal budget debate heating up, the efforts of WABE and GPB serve as a microcosm of a larger struggle over the role of government in supporting independent journalism and education.

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