Senate Passes $9B Cuts to Public Media, Aid

The U.S. Senate narrowly approved President Trump's $9 billion rescission package in a 51-48 vote, with only two Republicans joining Democrats in opposition. The legislation would eliminate federal funding for PBS, NPR, and hundreds of local public media stations, raising concerns about the impact on rural communities that depend on these services for news and emergency alerts. While supporters argue the cuts are necessary for fiscal responsibility, critics warn of significant harm to public access to information and local economies. The bill now returns to the House, where debates over amendments—including those seeking the release of Jeffrey Epstein-related files—have delayed a final vote ahead of a looming spending deadline. This marks the first major use of presidential rescission power in decades and may set a precedent for future executive spending cuts. Public media advocates are urging citizens to contact representatives, emphasizing the broad public support for continued funding.