President's FY2026 Budget Cuts NEA

On Friday, the White House released the President Trump’s first fiscal year 2026 budget proposal. As many anticipated, it recommends eliminating the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA), along with other cultural institutions. While the recommendation is disappointing, it is not binding. Under the Constitution, Congress—not the executive branch—holds the authority to set federal funding levels. This proposal reflects the administration’s broader goal of reducing the size and scope of government, but it will ultimately be up to lawmakers to decide whether to follow that path. As it did in response to similar proposals during the President’s first term, we hope Congress will once again reject this recommendation on a bipartisan basis.

Now more than ever, it is essential that arts advocates make a compelling and public case for preserving federal support for the arts. We encourage every member to reach out to their elected officials and urge them to oppose the proposed elimination of the NEA. Remind them that 40% of the NEA’s grant funds are distributed through the federal-state partnership, directly supporting state and jurisdictional arts agencies and regional arts organizations, and ensuring that NEA funding reaches every congressional district in the country. (See our Return on Investment: Public Arts Funding resources for case-making data and tools.) Most importantly, help them understand what this investment looks like in real life: whether it’s a local performance, an arts education program or an exhibition, show them the impact in their own communities.

NASAA stands ready to support you during this critical moment. Our mission is rooted in ensuring that public funding for the arts remains strong, accessible and responsive to the diverse needs of communities across the country. We thank you for your advocacy, your leadership and your commitment to the arts. We will continue working alongside you to ensure that Congress sees—and supports—the enduring value of public investment in creativity.