MAYS LANDING, NJ — Bayly Winder, Democratic candidate for New Jersey’s 2nd Congressional District, has released an open letter urging Governor Phil Murphy to restore full funding for New Jersey PBS. The letter, which garnered quick support from South Jersey community leaders, highlighted the challenges New Jersey media has faced in recent years and the critical role public broadcasting plays.

Some of those who joined Winder in signing the letter include Doug Fisher, former New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture and Assemblyman from the 3rd District; Dr. Edward H. Salmon, former Assemblyman from New Jersey’s 1st District and member of the Governor Florio Cabinet; Mayor Joe Hiles of Woodstown; Marie Blistan, Cape May County Democratic Chairwoman; Reverend Collins Days; Joanne Famularo, Pleasantville City Council member and candidate for State Assembly in the 2nd District; and Victoria Dolceamore, candidate for Atlantic County Commissioner At-Large.

In the past two years, several local New Jersey newspapers, including the Star Ledger, South Jersey Times, and Jersey Journal, have either ceased publishing entirely or moved to digital-only. Alongside the Trump administration’s assaults on NPR and weaponization of the FCC, the need for a not-for-profit, independent media ecosystem is more critical than ever.

The letter argues cuts to New Jersey PBS further jeopardize widespread access to quality nonpartisan reporting and programming, especially for parents and children in underserved and rural areas who depend on cable and radio. Winder and the signatories are calling on Governor Murphy and the state legislature to vigorously defend the program even amongst federal attacks.

“Governor Murphy’s job here isn’t easy,” Winder added. “But when public broadcasting goes away, so does quality news and our children’s education. I’m proud that so many of our community leaders are with me on this.”