ABC Sues FCC Over License Reviews After Trump Speech

The Federal Communications Commission queried major broadcast station groups regarding their coverage plans for President Donald Trump's July 16 prime-time speech on election security. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr contacted station owners and issued at least one formal letter of inquiry to determine how the event would be aired.

Several national networks, including CNN, NBC, and ABC, declined to broadcast the speech live on their main channels, opting instead for streaming platforms. President Trump responded by claiming the networks were engaged in a "plot" and suggested their licenses be removed. Chairman Carr criticized the networks for their decision, stating the address was "something that broadcasters should be caring about."

In response to ongoing license reviews, ABC has sued the FCC. The network alleges the agency is conducting an illegal "retaliatory campaign" against broadcasters who declined to air the president's address live.