ABC-owned local TV stations across multiple U.S. markets objected to the FCC’s early review of broadcast licenses, calling the process unlawful, arbitrary, and unconstitutional. The objections characterized the action as coercion aimed at disfavored editorial voices. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that broadcast licensees must operate in the public interest and framed the reviews as part of an intensifying dispute with ABC. The FCC has launched probes involving ABC’s diversity practices, moderation of a 2024 presidential debate, and guests booked on “The View.” The early reviews began in April for stations in eight markets, with renewals previously scheduled between 2028 and 2031. Carr said Disney filed renewal applications after the FCC alleged disingenuous, deficient, and improper responses to its investigation.
"“It is an extraordinary demonstration of power and coercion directed at disfavored editorial voices which sends a clear warning to every broadcaster in America,” WABC in New York wrote in an objection that accompanied paperwork filed to comply with the FCC's demand for early applications to renew licenses."
"“broadcast licensees have a unique obligation to operate in the public interest.” In a statement, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the agency’s focus centers on that obligation as it moves forward with early reviews of ABC-owned stations’ broadcast licenses."
"The reviews are part of a mounting confrontation between the FCC and one of America's most prominent broadcast networks. Under Carr, an ally of President Donald Trump, the agency has launched probes of ABC touching on everything from its diversity practices to the network's moderation of a 2024 presidential debate to guests booked on “The View.”"
"In his statement, Carr reiterated the agency's focus on Disney's diversity practices and said the company filed its renewal application “after the FCC informed the company that their responses to the agency's investigation had been disingenuous, deficient, and improper.”"
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