Trump Backs FCC, Suggests Networks' Licenses Be Revoked Over Critical Coverage

In a move that has raised concerns about press freedom, US President Donald Trump has suggested that some television networks should have their licenses "taken away." His comments come amid a dispute involving the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and ABC, which has indefinitely suspended its late-night host, Jimmy Kimmel.

The controversy stems from remarks Kimmel made following the murder of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk in Utah last week. During his monologue, Kimmel appeared to link the suspect to "the Maga gang," a term associated with Trump supporters. However, officials have since stated that the suspect was "indoctrinated with leftist ideology."

Kimmel’s suspension by ABC came shortly after the FCC, led by a Trump appointee, threatened regulatory action. The FCC chair, Brendan Carr, condemned Kimmel’s comments as "the sickest conduct possible" and warned that broadcasters that do not "change conduct and take action" could face further action from the commission.

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, President Trump echoed these sentiments, claiming that networks are overwhelmingly against him. "I have read some place that the networks were 97% against me, again, 97% negative, and yet I won and easily [in last year's election]," Trump said. "They give me only bad publicity [and] press. I mean, they're getting a licence. I would think maybe their licence should be taken away."

The FCC holds significant regulatory power over major networks like ABC and their local affiliates. This power was highlighted when Nexstar Media, a major TV station owner, announced it would no longer air Kimmel's show, calling his remarks "offensive and insensitive." Carr praised Nexstar, which is currently seeking FCC approval for a major merger, and expressed hope that other broadcasters would follow suit. Additionally, Sinclair, the largest ABC affiliate group, announced it would air a special program dedicated to Kirk in place of Kimmel's show.

Legal experts argue that the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects free speech, would prevent the FCC from revoking licenses over political disagreements. Despite this, a former writer for Kimmel's show, Joe Strazullo, told the BBC that there is a palpable atmosphere of fear among the show's staff, who are worried about their jobs.

The 31-year-old Charlie Kirk died from a single gunshot wound to the neck while speaking at Utah Valley University. A 22-year-old man has been charged with aggravated murder, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty.