Disney and ABC Sue FCC Over Early License Review
Disney and ABC filed a federal lawsuit against the FCC, claiming the agency's early license review of eight ABC stations is an attempt to punish the network for its coverage.
Disney and its broadcasting unit ABC have taken legal action against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in response to the agency's decision to conduct an early review of broadcast licenses for eight ABC-owned television stations. The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, argues that the FCC's move is a deliberate attempt to coerce and retaliate against a network that has refused to align with the administration's demands.
The legal challenge comes amid repeated public pressure from President Donald Trump, who has urged broadcasters to drop comedy or news programs he dislikes or that have been critical of his administration. Trump has on several occasions pressed the FCC to revoke ABC's licenses.
Disney's filing asserts that the FCC's early review is not a routine regulatory action but rather a punitive measure aimed at silencing a network that has not bowed to political pressure. The company is seeking to halt the license review, which it says threatens the network's ability to operate.
The case highlights an ongoing clash between the executive branch and major media organizations over editorial independence and regulatory authority.