The Communications Workers of America (CWA) union has criticized President Trump’s executive order, which they claim interferes with press freedom for public media. The CWA represents workers at NPR and PBS stations nationwide and non-editorial staff at their national headquarters.
Claude Cummings Jr., President of the CWA, stated, “President Trump’s attack on public TV and radio stations is an attack on workers and an attack on our communities.” He emphasized the importance of an independent local press in covering significant community stories.
NABET-CWA President Charlie Braico described the executive order as “an unlawful attempt to circumvent Congressional support for a free press” and highlighted the essential role of public TV and radio in providing trusted local news. He warned that without these stations, access to critical news would be lost.
NewsGuild-CWA President Jon Schleuss argued that the actions represent “another attack on every American’s First Amendment rights.” Schleuss pointed out that U.S. spending on public media is minimal compared to other developed countries, leading to news deserts across the nation. He urged Americans to support NPR and PBS by becoming monthly donors.
The CWA continues its advocacy for workers across various sectors including telecommunications, customer service, media, airlines, healthcare, public service, education, manufacturing, technology, among others.
