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Then came the bombshell: Greene raised the specter of criminal consequences. “I remind you you’re under oath, and violations of the Communications Act come with a fine up to $10,000, possibly up to a year in prison,” she warned, zeroing in on both Maher and PBS CEO Paula Kerger over allegations that their outlets may have aired commercial content for for-profit entities—an apparent breach of the law.
As the Republican-led committee digs into whether federal funds are being misused to bankroll what Greene called “radical propaganda,” the congresswoman tore into PBS for funding and airing documentaries that promote controversial ideologies, including transgenderism and race-baiting narratives.
Citing specific taxpayer-funded films, Greene slammed PBS for airing content like “Real Boy,” which documents a transgender teen’s journey, and “Racist Trees,” a documentary alleging racial discrimination through urban landscaping. “Do you think PBS needs to fund ridiculous materials such as this that the taxpayers are having to pay for?” Greene demanded of Kerger.
Kerger, for her part, remained composed, insisting that PBS is in full compliance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guidelines. “We are underwriting announcements, and we believe we are in full compliance with the FCC,” she said. “We look forward to delivering material required in part of this investigation.”
Maher attempted to defend herself, saying, “Absolutely not. I’m a very strong believer in free speech,” when asked if she or NPR considered themselves arbiters of misinformation.
But Greene wasn’t buying it. She threw Maher’s own past statements back at her, referencing a 2021 Atlantic Council event in which Maher admitted to actively combatting “misinformation” while leading Wikipedia. “You said you censored information through conversations with government. Which governments were those, Ms. Maher—the Biden administration? Yes or No?”
Maher responded, “Madam Chairman, we have never censored any information.”
Greene wasn’t letting up. She pressed Maher on whether NPR had ever violated Section 399b of the Communications Act, which prohibits noncommercial broadcasters from airing content that resembles advertising. “Does NPR air commercials for for-profit entities, Ms. Maher? Yes or no?”
Maher gave a carefully worded answer: “We are in full compliance with the FCC’s inquiry, and we’ll continue to cooperate.”
Just Released: Trump White House Collector’s Bobblehead!
The hearing underscored the growing divide between the conservative movement and taxpayer-funded media. With Greene leading the charge, Republicans are pushing to defund institutions they believe have become tools of left-wing ideology at the expense of balanced journalism and free speech.
And Greene made one thing clear: this wasn’t just political theater—it’s a prelude to action. “We look forward to that too. I’m assuming you’re concerned, both of you are concerned about this, and that’s why you brought so many attorneys with you today,” she added, hinting that subpoenas and legal ramifications may be on the horizon.
The message from Greene’s subcommittee was unmistakable: if you’re using federal dollars to peddle partisan narratives or possibly violate the law, expect to be held accountable.
