ABC sues Trump’s media regulator over demand for TV license renewals
Network alleges FCC demand for early license renewal is retaliation for content the administration disapproves of After being forced to apply early to renew its license to broadcast on the eight local television stations it owns, ABC has sued the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), arguing that it is being retaliated against for content-based reasons. The network filed the lawsuit on Tuesday…
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) officials have sued ABC, alleging the network is retaliating for content it disapproves of. The network claims it was forced to apply early to renew licenses for its eight local television stations, and it is waiting to hear whether the FCC will approve or hold a hearing on the requests. A group of former FCC officials warned that the agency is sending a "chilling message" to broadcasters after forcing ABC to apply early.
Conservative organizations have also filed petitions urging the FCC to deny the renewals, citing ABC's perceived political bias. The network is concerned that any adjudication process over its licenses could be a "charade" and would result in adverse outcomes, such as prolonged litigation or license denial. If left unchecked, the lawsuit argues that the Trump administration could retaliate against any media company they dislike for editorial and political reasons.
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