Uri Berliner, a senior editor at NPR who recently authored an op-ed criticizing the broadcaster for perceived liberal bias, has resigned from his position.
In a social media post on Wednesday, Berliner shared his resignation letter addressed to NPR leadership. In the letter, he acknowledged NPR as an important American institution but expressed his inability to continue working in an environment where he felt disparaged by the new CEO’s divisive views.
Berliner emphasized his respect for his colleagues’ integrity and his desire for NPR to continue producing impactful journalism.
Berliner’s op-ed, which asserted that NPR had veered too far to the left politically, ignited controversy within the company. Many prominent hosts and reporters within NPR challenged Berliner’s assertions and questioned his motives.
The piece finally led to Berliner’s suspension by NPR, citing failure to obtain approval for outside work, as required by the outlet’s policies.
The incident has attracted attention from Republican and conservative critics of NPR, who have long accused the network of bias against their viewpoints. Some have pointed to social media posts from NPR’s CEO, Katherine Maher, expressing progressive ideas before her tenure at the company.
NPR declined to comment on Berliner’s reported suspension, stating that they do not discuss individual personnel matters, including disciplinary actions.