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NewsKPBS Public MediaAugust 18, 2026San Diego

ABC and Disney sue FCC over alleged retaliatory license reviews

ABC and its parent company, The Walt Disney Co., have filed a federal lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), alleging the agency is using license renewal processes to retaliate against the network for its news coverage and talk show content. The network claims the FCC accelerated the review of its eight local broadcast station licenses years ahead of schedule to appease the Trump administration.

First AmendmentFCCBroadcastingMedia RegulationLitigation
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Why It Matters

The outcome of this case could determine the extent to which the federal government can use its regulatory authority over s to influence or penalize media organizations for their editorial content.

Key Facts

  • ABC and Disney filed a federal lawsuit against the FCC alleging First Amendment violations.
  • The FCC initiated early license renewal scrutiny for eight ABC-owned local television stations years ahead of schedule.
  • ABC alleges the FCC's actions are retaliatory for news coverage and talk show content critical of the Trump administration.
  • ABC paid $16 million to settle a defamation lawsuit filed by Donald Trump in December 2024.
  • FCC official Brendan Carr stated the agency has not yet made a decision on license renewals and is following standard procedures.
  • The lawsuit cites a recent Supreme Court decision regarding the government's inability to use state power to punish disfavored expression.
  • Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro stated the company will not be told how to run its journalistic business.
  • The FCC is composed of three members from the president's party and two from the opposing party.

Who's Mentioned

organizationFederal Communications Commission“Defendant in the lawsuit”organizationThe Walt Disney Co.“Corporate parent of ABC”personJimmy Kimmel“Late-night comedian targeted by the administration”personJosh D'Amaro“Disney CEO”personBrendan Carr“FCC official”personDonald Trump“President of the United States”organizationABC“Network suing the FCC”