ABC Takes Legal Action Against FCC Over Alleged Threats from Trump and Carr

ABC has initiated legal action against the Federal Communications Commission, alleging that the agency has engaged in a “retaliatory campaign” against its networks due to the content they air. In a lawsuit filed in federal court, ABC and its parent company Disney contend that the FCC is “punishing ABC for its speech” by threatening its broadcast licenses.

This lawsuit marks a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between ABC and the Trump administration, which has criticized the network’s political coverage, particularly from late-night host Jimmy Kimmel and the panel of The View. The FCC began investigating The View’s airtime for political candidates in February and subsequently required ABC stations owned by Disney to apply for early license renewals in April. In response, ABC sent a series of letters condemning the FCC’s actions, arguing that they threaten free speech. Notably, ABC chose not to air President Donald Trump’s speech on July 16th on its traditional channels, opting instead to stream it on ABC News Live.

ABC’s lawsuit claims that the Trump administration has “steadily increased the pressure” on its networks in recent months, asserting that the latest threat to its broadcast licenses reveals the Commission’s true intent: to coerce and retaliate against a network that refuses to comply with the Administration’s demands. Reports indicated that the FCC might take action against ABC and Disney as early as this month.

ABC and Disney are requesting a court order to stop the FCC’s broadcast license renewal processes. An FCC spokesperson responded, stating, “Disney is obviously very concerned about the FCC’s proceeding, as evidenced by their ongoing campaign of disinformation as well as their decision to ask a court to stop the FCC from further pursuing matters.” The spokesperson emphasized that the FCC will “continue to follow the facts and law wherever they lead.”

ABC’s lawsuit further argues that the repercussions of the Administration’s campaign against free speech extend beyond its own network. It warns that if the Administration succeeds, the message to all media companies will be clear: report only the narratives the Administration finds acceptable, or face the coercive power of the federal government. In such a scenario, the press could not be considered free.