If Trump cuts funding to NPR and PBS, rural America will pay a devastating price

Much of the country has little access to local news, with public media filling the void - and serving as a lifeline

When Hurricane Helene walloped North Carolina last fall, residents were hit by a second threat at the same time: the dire need for accurate information.

The loss of electric power amid the widespread flooding meant that people - especially those in isolated areas - were deprived of basic news. They needed to know about everything from road closures to the whereabouts of their family and friends to sources of drinkable water.

Margaret Sullivan is a Guardian US columnist writing on media, politics and culture