FCC Chief in Hot Seat: Senate Grilling on Media and Mergers

Hearing Focus: Media and Broadcasting Actions

Key Points

Hearing Details:
Date: Wednesday
Focus: Recent actions and statements by FCC Chair Brendan Carr
Controversy Surrounding Carr:
Pushed broadcasters to pull ABC's late-night show hosted by Jimmy Kimmel
Warning: Stations airing Kimmel's show could face penalties
Context: Kimmel made controversial comments about a conservative figure
President Trump's Involvement:
Criticized broadcasters
Pressured Carr to act
Suggested revoking licenses of Disney-owned ABC stations
Reason: ABC correspondent questioned Saudi Arabia's crown prince about a journalist's murder

Carr's Actions:
Announced a review of agreements between national networks and local stations
Written testimony mentions empowering local broadcasters but does not address the Kimmel incident
Criticism from FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez:
Accused Carr of intimidating government critics
Pressuring media companies
Claims actions undermine the FCC's independence
Other Topics to be Covered:
FCC's approval of the merger between Paramount Global and Skydance Media
Conditions: Ensure unbiased programming and hire an ombudsman
Reinstatement of complaints about:
CBS interview with Vice President Kamala Harris
ABC's moderation of a presidential debate
Addressing NBC's decision to let Harris appear on "Saturday Night Live" before the election