Disney and ABC File A Lawsuit Against the FCC Over Broadcast License Threats
Disney’s ABC division filed a lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission on Tuesday to prevent an early review of licenses for eight ABC stations, claiming that the Trump administration is attempting to penalize the network for its broadcast programming.
President Donald Trump has regularly pushed the FCC to cancel ABC’s licenses and asked broadcasters to stop airing comedies or news shows that he doesn’t like or that criticize him or his administration.
In a complaint filed in the U.S. District Court in Washington, Disney claimed that the FCC was attempting to attack and force “a network that refuses to bow to the administration’s demands,” characterizing the agency’s actions as a “extraordinary assault on free speech.”
The most recent action comes after a two-year conflict between Trump and Disney. Trump has launched an aggressive campaign of attacks on the press media. Trump once more demanded that ABC stations lose their licenses last month after the network declined to broadcast an election-related prime-time speech.
Disney and ABC requested that the court impose a temporary restraining order as soon as possible to stop the license renewal process and stop the FCC from setting up a hearing. The corporation stated that the FCC could take action at any time and that the public comment period concluded earlier this month.
The lawsuit claims that the FCC “is using its regulatory power to retaliate against (Disney and ABC) for programming and editorial decisions the administration dislikes,” so violating the company’s First Amendment right to free speech.
Disney disputes the FCC’s claim that its diversity programs amounted to illegal discrimination, but the agency said the action was the result of a year-long inquiry.
On Tuesday, U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan issued an order instructing the FCC and the corporation to suggest a timeline for reviewing the request for a temporary restraining order. She also instructed the agency to let her know if it moves to begin the process of canceling the ABC licenses.
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