Hegseth, FCC Chair Threaten Press Over Iran War Coverage
NEWS & RESEARCH
The Trump administration has conducted a “pressure campaign” against news organizations it considers not supportive of the Iran war. Federal Communications Commission head Brendan Carr warned broadcast networks that “hoaxes and news distortions” around the war could lead to revocation of licenses, a threat Trump said he supported. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth complained about news coverage of the war and said he was looking forward to CNN being controlled by Trump ally David Ellison. In a news release Trump accused CNN of seeking to “undermine our decisive victories in Operation Epic Fury.”
SOURCE: New York Times
ANALYSIS & OPINION
CNN’s Brian Stelter described the threats as coordinated efforts by “cabinet officials, regulators and MAGA allies” to “discourage independent reporting.” Legal expert Will Creeley described the threats as “authoritarian” with the government demanding that the press “become a state mouthpiece.” Experts said it’s unlikely Carr would be able to follow through on his threats but that they are meant to intimidate and could “make the broadcasters go through the arduous work of defending themselves.”
SOURCES: UN Press Release | CNN | Poynter | Washington Post
HOW TO FIX IT
Federal action:
Urge Congress to pass the NOPE Act to prevent politically motivated harassment, including harassment targeting the media.
Narrow the FCC’s regulatory scope to prevent abuse of power.
Protect Independence: Insulate the FCC from White House interference.
End the “news distortion” policy
Legislation: H.R.7060 - No Political Enemies Act
