ABC urges government to stay away from its news operations.

ABC is pushing back against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) following the agency’s investigation into The View’s coverage of political candidates. In a letter sent to the FCC, ABC contends that the investigation threatens editorial independence by targeting shows that may be seen as critical of the current administration.

In February, FCC Chair Brendan Carr announced a review of The View’s status as a “bona fide” news program after the show featured an interview with Rep. James Talarico (D-TX), who is campaigning for a Senate seat. This classification allows The View to bypass the “equal time rule,” which mandates that broadcasters provide equal airtime to candidates running for the same office.

ABC stated, “The First Amendment does not permit the government to sit in an editor’s chair,” criticizing the FCC for attempting to determine which programs qualify as legitimate news and potentially forcing them to give airtime to guests they did not choose.

The FCC first classified The View as a bona fide news program back in 2002. ABC argues that while the show itself has remained consistent, the surrounding political environment has shifted. “The Commission has trained its attention on daytime and late-night television,” ABC noted. Former Late Show host Stephen Colbert mentioned that CBS prevented him from airing an interview with Rep. Talarico due to concerns about the FCC’s evolving policies. Reports indicate that The View has steered clear of hosting political candidates since the inquiry began.

ABC further emphasized that an exemption protecting editorial independence only when the speaker’s views align with those in power is ineffective; it creates a precarious situation where one program may be shielded today but not tomorrow, depending on who holds power.

In April, the FCC required ABC’s Disney-owned stations to apply for early license renewals as part of an investigation into the company’s diversity, equity, and inclusivity policies, raising alarms about potential interference in the content broadcasted by networks.