Dear editor:
A recent opinion column took aim at PBS, suggesting it has strayed from its mission and no longer reflects the values of Wyoming viewers.
As someone who has worked in Wyoming television and radio for more than four decades — and was personally involved in helping establish the original KUWR control room — I feel compelled to offer a broader and more grounded perspective.
First, let’s put one persistent myth to rest: PBS is not in decline.
Like all media outlets, its ratings fluctuate, but data from respected organizations like the Pew Research Center suggest that PBS remains one of the most trusted and widely valued sources of news and educational programming.
In fact, public broadcasting has consistently ranked high for trustworthiness across the political spectrum.
The columnist claims PBS "acts like a network" and "makes decisions as if it represents a single voice."
Well, yes — PBS is a network, and like any national content provider, it must make programming decisions to serve a diverse and complex audience.
Naturally, not every station or viewer will agree on every choice. That’s true of any media outlet. The implication that this is somehow nefarious or unprecedented simply doesn’t hold up.
What’s missing from her piece is a single example — just one — where PBS programming or policy has violated the trust or values of Wyoming viewers.
Instead, the argument leans heavily on broad accusations and vague grievances without evidence.
Let’s be candid: Many criticisms of public broadcasting today echo political talking points.
While I won’t speculate on the columnist’s motives, readers can draw their own conclusions based on the tone and timing of these attacks.
Wyoming viewers are not monolithic. They include ranchers, educators, engineers, students, artists, and families from all walks of life and every corner of the political spectrum.
Public broadcasting continues to serve them with dignity, balance, and an unwavering commitment to facts.
We should be skeptical of any effort to discredit PBS based on political perception rather than demonstrated harm. Wyoming deserves better than that—and so does public media.
Sincerely,
Robert D. Price, Casper
