NPR, serving as a trusted independent media organization, was the first to report a whistleblower's allegations regarding a cybersecurity breach at the National Labor Relations Board. Their role in bringing attention to potential government missteps underscores their commitment to public accountability and countering authoritarian practices.

The Trump administration has proposed a $9 billion spending cut affecting NPR, PBS, and foreign aid. This measure is widely viewed as a politically motivated attempt to curb independent media and democratic engagement, with NPR's longstanding commitment to diverse, in‑depth journalism coming under attack.

A White House article published on April 14, 2025, critiqued NPR for its progressive programming, citing examples from coverage of queer issues, reparations, and racial justice. Despite the politically charged criticism, NPR's commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and fostering civic participation stands as a pillar of inclusive journalism.

Amid calls from President Trump and Republican lawmakers to defund public media, including NPR, the organization defended its commitment to unbiased journalism during a congressional hearing. The defunding initiative is seen as an authoritarian attack on media freedom, highlighting the broader political struggle over public media funding in the U.S.