Brendan Carr tops the news again as FCC chair grilling ABC licenses and broadcast rules; longtime FCC commissioner (since 2017), ex-lawyer.
Paramount Skydance has outbid Netflix to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery for $111 billion, pending regulatory approval. The deal aims to combine major studios and streaming platforms, with ongoing concerns over market dominance, regulatory scrutiny, and potential impacts on the entertainment industry. The process faces delays and political considerations, but the deal is expected to close within 6 to 18 months.
As of April 28, 2026, FCC Chair Brendan Carr has issued warnings to US broadcasters that they must "correct course" on coverage of the US-Israel war with Iran or risk losing their licenses. This follows President Trump's accusations on Truth Social that Western media outlets are spreading AI-generated falsehoods about the conflict. Critics have condemned Carr's threats as a risk to press freedom during a deeply unpopular war.
Eight US states have filed a lawsuit to block Nexstar's $3.5 billion acquisition of Tegna, citing concerns over reduced competition, higher prices, and impacts on local news. The FCC approved the deal, but legal challenges and political opposition are ongoing as courts review the merger's legality.
The FCC has updated its 'Covered List' to block new consumer routers produced outside the US, citing national security risks. Existing models remain usable, but future imports will require approval. The move aims to reduce vulnerabilities exploited by foreign actors, especially China-based manufacturers like TP-Link.
The US government is increasing pressure on journalists through political and regulatory channels, including threats to revoke licenses and accusations of false reporting. These measures aim to control war narratives and limit independent journalism, raising concerns over press freedom and transparency during ongoing conflicts.
The DOJ is examining whether the NFL's broadcast and streaming practices are anti-competitive, amid rising costs for consumers and concerns over the shifting sports media landscape. The investigation follows recent reports of high subscription fees and regulatory scrutiny of the league's exemption from antitrust laws.
A U.S. District Court has issued a preliminary injunction that prevents Nexstar and Tegna from merging amid ongoing legal challenges. The court finds that the merger is likely to harm competition, increase consumer costs, and reduce local journalism. The companies have already completed the deal but are now halted pending further legal proceedings.