FCC Chairman Defends Actions Against ABC Amid License Review Dispute

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr defended the agency’s recent measures against ABC, emphasizing broadcasters’ responsibility to operate in the public interest. Carr highlighted this in an interview on the Fox Business Network, stating, “Broadcasters like ABC struck a deal with the American people. They receive subsidized, free access to a valuable public resource, the airwaves, worth billions. In return, they must operate in the public interest.”

He continued, “We should have a trusted, respected news media in this country. We’re not there yet.” Carr urged more broadcasters to adhere to their public interest obligations.

The remarks followed ABC’s accusations that the FCC, amid a growing conflict with President Donald Trump’s administration, aimed to suppress its constitutionally protected free speech, along with that of other media outlets. ABC alleged the FCC’s actions were retaliatory, driven by disagreement with ABC’s political content.

ABC formally opposed the FCC’s early review of eight local broadcast licenses in April, which the network argued was atypical. According to the network’s filing, the review process is being applied selectively, targeting ABC stations due to their content and viewpoints. ABC noted that the administration has previously called for the revocation of its licenses due to dissatisfaction with ABC’s programming.

The retaliation against ABC is a signal to every media company in the country.

ABC claimed the administration’s actions aimed to intimidate the media industry, ensuring compliance with certain expectations for news coverage.

The FCC’s license review of ABC is part of an ongoing confrontation. The network disputes Carr’s call for “The View” to adhere to equal-time rules. The FCC previously exempted the show as a bona fide news program in a 2002 decision.

ABC also faces criticism linked to host Jimmy Kimmel, whom Trump has targeted repeatedly. This early license review coincided with discord over a joke by Kimmel that offended Trump. Carr, in the Fox interview, mentioned concerns over ABC’s diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, though he did not elaborate further.

ABC, referring to the public comment period on the license issue, highlighted over 140,000 comments backing its stance, noting unprecedented support for a license renewal process. “These supporters span the ideological spectrum but share a fundamental commitment to free speech and press freedom,” the network stated.

The network emphasized the rarity of the FCC’s early license renewal request. ABC pointed out, “Until the day before this step was taken, the FCC had not requested license renewal applications ahead of schedule for over fifty years.” ABC described this deviation from standard protocol as retaliation against its exercise of First Amendment rights.

This ongoing dispute highlights tensions between media outlets and regulatory bodies over broadcasting practices and freedom of speech.

Jocelyn Noveck covers media and entertainment for The Associated Press.