FCC Chair: ABC's Decision Not To Air Trump Speech To Be Reviewed

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr indicated that ABC's decision to not broadcast President Donald Trump's speech last week will be included in the agency's upcoming review of broadcast licenses. This review process is expected to commence early. During the speech itself, President Trump had publicly stated that ABC and NBC, both of which did not carry the address, should have their broadcast licenses revoked. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is responsible for overseeing broadcast licenses in the United States. The agency's review of licenses typically involves assessing a broadcaster's adherence to regulatory requirements and public interest obligations. The Chairman's statement suggests that the FCC will examine the circumstances surrounding ABC's decision not to air the President's remarks. This examination could potentially influence the renewal or continuation of ABC's broadcast licenses. The FCC has the authority to impose penalties or take other actions if a broadcaster is found to be in violation of FCC rules. The specific criteria for license review and the potential outcomes remain subject to the FCC's established procedures. The Chairman's remarks highlight the FCC's role in mediating disputes and ensuring accountability within the broadcast industry, particularly when political figures are involved. The decision by ABC to preempt the speech, and President Trump's subsequent call for license revocation, brings this regulatory aspect into sharp focus.