Public TV Funding Snagged in Partisan Squabble
BOSTON — Republicans on Capitol Hill are demanding a review of funding for public broadcasting after learning that WGBH-TV gave a list of its donors to the Democrats.
The episode could threaten funding for public broadcasting nationwide.
WGBH has acknowledged giving a list of donors’ names earlier this year to the Democratic National Committee, despite tax laws that prohibit public stations from playing political favorites. The station in return received a list of DNC contributors.
“It would be unfortunate if members of Congress take action against the whole system because one member made a mistake,” said Angela Lifsey, a WGBH spokeswoman. “What happened was not a partisan situation.”
The House Commerce Committee had been scheduled to consider hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for public broadcasting Wednesday, but the meeting was postponed because of the furor. Lawmakers said they want to hold a hearing first to air their concerns.
Rep. W.J. “Billy” Tauzin (R-La.), chairman of the Commerce Committee’s telecommunications subcommittee, said he will reduce his funding proposal for public broadcasting.
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