Cruz Pushes Back on FCC Threats
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) publicly rebuked Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr for his warnings to ABC over late-night host Jimmy Kimmel’s remarks following the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk.
On his Verdict with Ted Cruz podcast Friday, Cruz said Carr’s warning sounded like something “straight out of Goodfellas,” adding that the phrasing — “We can do this the easy way or the hard way” — mirrored mafia intimidation tactics.
The Kimmel Suspension
Kimmel’s show was suspended earlier this week after his monologue accused “the MAGA gang” of trying to downplay the political leanings of Kirk’s accused killer.
Carr later said ABC could face consequences tied to its broadcast license if the network failed to act. Within hours, ABC and Nexstar Media Group, which owns ABC affiliates nationwide, pulled “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” indefinitely.
Cruz Diverges From Trump
While Cruz welcomed Kimmel’s suspension, he warned that federal threats to broadcasters could set a dangerous precedent for free speech.
“If the government gets in the business of banning media content it doesn’t like, that ends badly for conservatives,” Cruz said.
His comments placed him at odds with President Donald Trump, who praised Carr as “outstanding” and called the suspension “great news for America.”
Industry and Regulatory Context
The suspension came as Nexstar pursues a $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, a merger requiring FCC approval. Carr has argued networks must serve the “public interest” under their licenses, while encouraging affiliates to pre-empt programs when necessary.
Kimmel remains suspended but not terminated, according to ABC.
Related Coverage
- National News – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
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