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National Public Radio (NPR) Chief Katherine Maher has declined to appear before a House committee on Wednesday, stating a prior commitment to attend an all-day meeting with the organization’s board of directors. NPR confirmed Maher’s decision to Fox News Digital, mentioning that she has offered to provide testimony on a future date that is convenient for both the Committee and herself.
The organization explained that the board meeting was scheduled well in advance and is crucial for Maher to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing NPR as she navigates her new role as CEO. Maher, who has only been in the position for six weeks, will be unable to attend the hearing this week but will submit written testimony in her absence.
The House Committee on Energy and Commerce, led by Chairwoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers, had requested Maher’s appearance, expressing concerns about NPR’s direction under previous and current leadership. In response to Maher’s decision not to attend, a committee spokesperson criticized her absence, highlighting the importance of addressing the viewpoints and concerns of millions of Americans.
NPR has been under intensifying scrutiny in recent weeks following revelations from a former senior editor about the predominance of Democratic voices in the newsroom. Some Republicans have called for the revocation of federal funding for NPR through the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) in light of these findings.
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