News From DC

Many public radio and TV stations gathered in Washington, D.C. this past week for our annual Capitol Hill Days. With all the debate about NPR and CPB funding, the meeting had a very different tenor. The gloom and doom created by the early defunding legislation in the House of Representatives had cast a pall as we began arriving in D.C.

The news and reaction we found is very hopeful. There are a lot of challenges ahead and it is going to be a long battle. However, there are a lot of friends and fans of public media in both the House and the Senate.

Polly Anderson, KNME-TV, and Michael Brasher, KANW-FM, in Albuquerque joined me for the visits to the New Mexico Delegates offices. Good conversations were held with all five. Some brief notes/thoughts:

Congressmen Heinrich and Lujan are good supporters of public media. Both assured us that we could count on their support. The picture certainly explains where Representative Lujan stands with Elmo riding high.

Jonathan Shuffield from Congressman Pearce’s office met with us. While the Congressman is on the record of voting against our funding, we had a very good conversation. Vote or no vote, I believe KRWG can help create the forum to discuss issues in an intelligent setting. Our offer to facilitate those conversations will always be extended to all parties.

Both Senator Bingaman and Udall are firmly with us. The reception with Senator Bingaman’s staff was warm and encouraging. Senator Udall was able to break away and speak with Polly Anderson and me for several minutes.

Key to the proceedings was a common thought from each of them. They are getting your calls, notes and emails. Regardless of where they stand we ask that you continue to voice your opinion to each of them with the appropriate – “Please reconsider…” or “Thank you for your vote of support.” Both messages are important.

We will keep you posted on developments as we proceed.