WASHINGTON, D.C. - National Public Radio (NPR) and three local stations have filed a lawsuit against President Donald Trump, challenging the legality of his executive order to cut federal funding for public media [1][2][3]. The legal action, initiated on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, argues that the order violates the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

The lawsuit was filed in federal court in Washington by NPR, Colorado Public Radio, Aspen Public Radio, and KUTE, Inc. It contends that Trump's executive order to reduce public subsidies to both NPR and the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is unconstitutional [1][2][3].

President Trump issued the executive order earlier this month, instructing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting and other federal agencies to cease funding for public media [3]. The move has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the future of public broadcasting in the United States.

The legal challenge comes at a time of heightened tension between the Trump administration and various media outlets. It also coincides with ongoing trade discussions between the United States and the European Union, as President Trump reported progress in these talks on his social media platform [1].

As this lawsuit unfolds, it is likely to reignite debates about government funding for public media and the role of state-supported broadcasting in a democratic society. The outcome of this legal battle could have significant implications for the future of public radio and television in America.

The case is expected to draw attention from media rights advocates, constitutional law experts, and supporters of public broadcasting across the nation. As of now, the White House has not issued an official response to the lawsuit.