The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ordered ABC to apply early for renewal of licenses for its eight owned and operated local television stations, a move that has sparked backlash from industry groups and press freedom organisations. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr denied the decision was linked to a joke made by late-night host Jimmy Kimmel about First Lady Melania Trump, instead citing an investigation into Disney and ABC's diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.
Carr stated that the renewal order was based on an investigation opened in March 2025, after Disney provided hundreds of documents that the FCC viewed as insufficient. He emphasised that the decision was made internally, without external pressure, and was tied to equal employment opportunity obligations. 'You can't discriminate based on race and gender and there's evidence that had been submitted that that's what Disney was doing,' Carr said.
The decision drew criticism from the National Association of Broadcasters, Senator Ted Cruz, and press freedom groups. Democratic FCC Commissioner Anna M Gomez called the action 'clearly a pretext' and part of a 'pattern of harassment and retaliation' against Disney. She noted that the renewal process could take years, during which ABC can continue operating normally, but warned it sets a dangerous precedent.
Comcast and NBCUniversal are also under FCC investigation for DEI practices since February 2025. Carr said any action would depend on the facts of each case. He acknowledged backlash to his recent decisions but said he was not bothered by it. Gomez expressed confidence that Disney would prevail, as the company has defended its compliance with FCC rules.
