Listen up on public broadcasting

[Commentary] Does the federal deficit need to be addressed? Of course. But gutting public radio and public television is not the answer. Eliminating the government’s investment in public broadcasting would reduce the $1.5 trillion federal budget deficit by less than three ten-thousandths of one percent. But it would have a devastating impact on local communities nationwide. Public broadcasting is not a “luxury we can't afford," as some have said. A strong, community-centered public media service for all Americans is a vital part of our democracy.

[Jonathan C. Abbott is president and CEO of WGBH. Charles Kravetz is general manager of WBUR]