US President Donald Trump has accused national broadcasters ABC and NBC of spreading ‘fake news’ and criticized the networks for acting as a mouthpiece for the Democratic Party. During a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump called for the networks to be ‘made smaller,’ citing concerns about the growing influence of left-leaning media outlets. His remarks followed reports that FCC Chairman Brendan Carr is considering measures to expand television networks and facilitate a merger between Nexstar Media Group and Tegna Inc.
Trump’s post reflects a broader pattern of his attacks on the media, which have intensified in recent weeks amid his administration’s efforts to restrict press access and influence coverage. This dispute is part of an ongoing conflict, with Trump renewing calls for the FCC to revoke broadcast licenses held by ABC after a reporter’s question about his handling of files related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. FCC commissioners have emphasized that revoking licenses over such issues would not hold up legally, as station licenses, not national networks, are subject to renewal.
His criticism has extended beyond national broadcasters. Following a joke by late-night comedian Jimmy Kimmel about the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Carr threatened to review and potentially revoke the broadcast licenses of ABC-owned local stations and their affiliates. This move highlights a growing tension between the administration and media outlets, with Trump using his platform to push for stricter control over coverage and to challenge the legitimacy of certain news organizations.
Meanwhile, FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez reiterated that revoking licenses over a reporter’s question would not meet legal standards, noting that networks do not hold licenses themselves, and none of their station licenses are up for renewal soon. The FCC, an independent agency, grants eight-year licenses to individual stations, not national networks. This clarification underscores the complexities of the ongoing debate over media influence and regulatory oversight in the current political climate.