Federal funding cuts

Uncertainty around SNAP benefits has brought a lot of attention to food insecurity. Nonprofits have to figure out how to meet growing needs, now and into the future.

KAXE was chosen to receive more than $17,000 in community support, recognizing its role as Northern Minnesota’s independent, people-powered public radio station.

KAXE was the first rural public community licensee in the U.S. in 1976. When Congress rescinded federal funding, supporters gave over $170,000 to keep us on the air. Times are still tough, but people-powered radio marches boldly forward.

Beltrami County is proposing a 41% reduction in community funding for libraries in Blackduck and Bemidji, as well as the Beltrami County Historical Society and Paul Bunyan Transit, for the 2026 budget.

The Select Subcommittee on Federal Impacts on Minnesotans and Economic Stability will have Republican and DFL members, and will travel around the state to hear from Minnesotans impacted.

From hearing Woody Guthrie on the air in 1976 to leading KAXE through crises, Maggie Montgomery reflects on the station’s resilience and the urgent fight to keep community radio alive after federal funding cuts.

Minnesota was part of the multi-state lawsuit against the Trump administration for freezing funds for six programs, including after-school programs and summer learning.

University of Minnesota rising senior Dani Fraher was an intern at KAXE in the summer of 2025 through Report for Minnesota and the Minnesota Journalism Center.

More than 13,000 to be impacted in the 8th Congressional District.

The cut amounts to 37% of the station's budget. It said it won't close, but significant change will happen without "swift and collective action."