The Georgia Public Telecommunications Commission has unanimously chosen Bert Huffman as the new CEO of Georgia Public Broadcasting. Huffman, who has been serving as interim CEO of GPB since former chief Teya Ryan’s resignation in May, has a history with GPB dating back to 2014. As the previous president of GPB, he led marketing operations, communications, and sponsorship and fundraising initiatives.
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp said in a statement, “I want to congratulate Bert as he steps into this role and continues his service at GPB. I know he will help ensure the agency remains a valued part of the lives of Georgians through informative content.”
This executive transition occurs during challenging times for the public broadcasting system, which oversees nine TV and 20 radio stations across Georgia. The organization recently faced a 9% budget cut, equating to approximately $1.4 million, driven by state Senate Republicans. Despite primarily relying on non-state sources for funding, the cut deeply impacted GPB’s operation, particularly its transmission towers and educational programs.
In June, following the budget cut and Ryan’s departure, GPB announced the cancellation of Political Rewind and the dismissal of the show’s host, Bill Nigut. Since its inception in 2013, the show has been a significant platform for state and national political discourse, especially as Georgia gained political prominence. GPB maintained that this move was part of its “rededication” to its fundamental mission and not a direct result of the funding changes.rad
