Conservative Groups Urge FCC to Block 8 ABC License Renewals as July 29 Opposition Deadline Nears
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jul 6
Conservative Groups Urge FCC to Block 8 ABC License Renewals as July 29 Opposition Deadline Nears
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jul 6
Summary
Four conservative groups petitioned the FCC to deny renewal of licenses for eight ABC-owned local TV stations, arguing the broadcaster is unfit to hold public spectrum and seeking hearings that could trigger a trial-like review.
The filings accuse ABC of partisan news bias, discriminatory employment practices, misinformation, election influence and even sympathy toward China, with complaints targeting Jimmy Kimmel, a 2024 debate and Disney diversity hiring efforts.
The challenge follows the FCC's April move to force ABC into an early renewal process, which Chair Brendan Carr has tied to an investigation into the network's DEI practices after repeated Trump attacks on ABC.
July 29 is the deadline for ABC and others to oppose the petitions, followed by Aug. 5 replies; the case could then go to an administrative law judge or be heard by FCC commissioners, with Carr saying no timeline is set.