What Does AM Radio Mean to You?

The phasing out of AM radio in electric vehicles has sparked bipartisan concern, as the band remains a critical lifeline for rural, non-English speaking, and marginalized communities. While automakers cite technical interference from electric motors as the primary driver for removal, critics argue that AM radio provides essential local news, emergency alerts, and cultural programming that lacks representation on FM or digital platforms. Independent, non-English language stations, such as the Bay Area's KVTO, face existential threats from this shift, as they lack the resources to pivot to web streaming or FM simulcasts. The proposed "AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act" reflects a rare political consensus on the medium's value, positioning it as an indispensable, affordable, and accessible public utility that ensures diverse voices remain on the airwaves despite the industry's move toward digital-only infrastructure.