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Disney-owned ABC files First Amendment lawsuit against FCC
CNBC • • general
Key Points:
- Disney's ABC has filed a First Amendment lawsuit against the FCC, accusing the agency of conducting a "retaliatory campaign" due to ABC's programming critical of President Donald Trump.
- The lawsuit challenges the FCC's early review of ABC's broadcast station licenses, which was initiated months after political backlash linked to comments by TV host Jimmy Kimmel and criticism of the daytime talk show "The View."
- ABC seeks to halt the FCC's early license renewal process, arguing that the agency's actions are unlawful, arbitrary, and unconstitutional, while the FCC maintains the review focuses on Disney's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices.
- FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, appointed by Trump, stated the investigation is unrelated to First Amendment issues and centers on potential violations of the Communications Act and anti-discrimination rules.
- Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro reaffirmed the company's commitment to journalistic integrity and standing firm against perceived governmental pressure during a recent CNBC interview.
