Saturday

06-14-2025 Vol 1991

Legislation Threatens Federal Funding for Public Media; Local World Cup Updates and Political Concerns Rise

The U.S. House of Representatives is on the verge of a vote that could significantly impact public media outlets across the nation.

Legislation is expected to pass that would retract two years of federal funding, with the Senate poised to address this measure soon.

Margaret Low, CEO of WBUR, provided an insightful overview on the implications of these potential cuts in a public letter last week, urging supporters to take action.

Turning to local events, officials revealed a countdown clock at Faneuil Hall yesterday, marking exactly one year until the first match of the 2026 World Cup.

In anticipation of the global sporting event, Boston 2026 Host Committee leaders project that over 2 million visitors will flock to New England to participate in the festivities.

As excitement builds, many are asking the pressing question: when can tickets be purchased?

Boston, specifically the town of Foxborough, is one of 16 designated cities slated to host matches during the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The notable Gillette Stadium is scheduled to host seven matches from June 13 to July 9, 2026, including one of the four quarterfinal games.

However, ticket sales for the general public are still a few months away.

According to a spokesperson for the Boston 2026 Host Committee, ticket sales for the general public are anticipated to commence later this year, although specific timing and pricing details remain to be announced.

For those willing to spend more, luxury hospitality packages are currently available but come with a hefty price tag of several thousand dollars.

In terms of economic impact, organizers are projecting a remarkable $1.1 billion boost to Greater Boston’s economy, generating approximately 5,000 jobs and over $60 million in tax revenue.

Yet, the cost of hosting this monumental event is also significant, estimated to range from $75 million to $100 million, covering expenses such as security, transportation, and local viewing parties.

As the countdown to the World Cup continues, many questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding ticket availability.

This uncertainty was underscored when a FIFA official abruptly ended a call with an Associated Press reporter who sought details on ticketing.

In a related development, Representative Seth Moulton expressed concerns over President Donald Trump’s recent deployment of military forces in U.S. cities, including Boston.

As nationwide protests against federal immigration raids gain momentum, President Trump mobilized hundreds of Marines, along with the National Guard, in response to escalating unrest, particularly in Los Angeles.

The White House maintains that this move is intended to protect federal buildings and personnel.

However, Moulton remarked that there are only two avenues to curtail the president’s military powers: through Congress or the courts.

Currently, California Governor Gavin Newsom is challenging the president’s actions, though Moulton warned that judicial processes require time to unfold.

He emphasized that the Republican-led Congress appears unwilling to confront the president on this matter.

Listeners can tune into Moulton’s full interview on WBUR’s Morning Edition, where he mentioned hearing from active-duty Marines expressing unease about the military’s role in suppressing domestic protests.

At the local political level, differences in opinion among prominent Bay State politicians, particularly those with military backgrounds, emerged regarding Trump’s decision to deploy troops in response to protests.

In another Public Service Announcement, the Massachusetts public health council recently approved new regulations enabling teachers and staff in schools to administer opioid-overdose reversing medications, such as naloxone, to students in emergencies.

These regulations now extend to include medications for chronic health issues like diabetes and seizure disorders, enhancing the state’s response to medical emergencies among students.

Lastly, Boston residents can look forward to changes in the annual Fourth of July celebrations.

The Boston Pops announced that their traditional concert at the Esplanade will begin one hour earlier at 7 p.m., leading to the fireworks display taking place around 9:40 p.m. instead of the typical 10:40 p.m.

image source from:https://www.wbur.org/news/2025/06/12/boston-2026-world-cup-tickets-when-buy

Benjamin Clarke