Prairie Public Broadcasting Expects Significant Hit From Federal Cuts

John Harris, president and CEO of Prairie Public Broadcasting. (Michael Achterling/North Dakota Monitor)

(North Dakota Monitor) – North Dakota-based Prairie Public Broadcasting may look and sound different over the next 12 months if Senate lawmakers proceed with expected funding cuts.

John Harris, president of Prairie Public, said he is pessimistic about federal funds continuing to flow to PBS and the Corporation for Public Broadcasting after Vice President JD Vance cast the tie-breaking vote to advance a bill that claws back previously approved funding.

“It’s just a high potential that we’re going to take a significant hit,” Harris said. He said the elimination of the federal funds adds up to about $2 million of Prairie Public’s budget over the next two years.

Federal funding for three North Dakota tribal radio stations also was at risk, but a deal announced would set aside funds for some Native American radio stations.