Key facts
- Disney and ABC are suing the FCC, alleging political retaliation for the network's content.
- The lawsuit claims the FCC's early license review of eight ABC stations violates First Amendment rights.
- FCC Chairman Brendan Carr initiated the review citing concerns over diversity and inclusion practices.
- This action is unprecedented, as the FCC had not called for an early license review in over 50 years.
- Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro stated the company will defend its journalistic integrity.
Disney and its ABC unit have filed a lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), alleging that the regulator's early review of eight ABC stations' broadcast licenses constitutes political retaliation by the Trump administration. The lawsuit claims the FCC is attempting to punish the network for its content and viewpoints, particularly those critical of the administration. ABC has asked a court to block the FCC’s review, asserting it violates their First Amendment rights and that the administration is retaliating against ABC for its content. Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro has stated the company will defend its journalistic integrity and will not be told how to run its business. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr initiated the review citing concerns over diversity and inclusion practices. This action is unprecedented, as the FCC had not called for an early license review in over 50 years, and it comes years before the licenses were set to expire. Trump had previously called for ABC and NBC to lose their licenses for not airing an Oval Office address, with Carr asserting broadcasters must operate in the public interest. Carr has also focused on ABC's talk show 'The View,' questioning if it should retain an exemption for 'bona fide news' programs.