An article summarized by CNBC:
Disney’s ABC has filed a First Amendment lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission, accusing the agency of launching a retaliatory campaign because of programming that has been critical of President Donald Trump. ABC is asking a federal court in Washington, D.C., to stop the FCC’s early review of its broadcast licenses, arguing that the investigation is causing the company “irreparable harm.”
The dispute began after the FCC launched an unusually early review of ABC’s broadcast licenses, citing concerns about Disney’s diversity, equity and inclusion practices and potential violations of communications laws. ABC has argued that the process is unconstitutional and politically motivated, particularly because it followed renewed criticism of the network over comments made by late-night host Jimmy Kimmel and criticism of The View. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has denied that the license review is connected to First Amendment issues.
Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro has said the company intends to defend its journalistic independence and will not allow the government to dictate how its news and entertainment operations are run. The lawsuit represents a significant escalation in the conflict between Disney and the Trump administration, with the FCC yet to publicly respond to the filing. The dispute comes as Disney continues its transition under D’Amaro, who became CEO in March after Bob Iger stepped down.
