Disney lawyer says US seeks to censor, control ABC broadcasts
DIS•A Disney lawyer urged a judge to block early FCC license reviews of the company’s eight ABC stations, arguing the administration is seeking to punish the broadcaster for its programming. The stations’ licenses were not due to expire until 2028 to 2031.
1. Disney seeks injunction
Disney lawyer Beth Wilkinson asked a federal judge to block the FCC’s early review of licenses for the company’s eight ABC stations, saying the agency’s actions are chilling editorial decisions. The company filed suit in August, and the judge held a hearing to consider Disney’s request for a preliminary injunction.
2. FCC cites document requests
FCC Chair Brendan Carr ordered the reviews in April. The FCC says Disney did not properly respond to information requests tied to an investigation into its diversity practices; Carr has said the early review was prompted by Disney’s failure to respond quickly. The licenses were not due to expire until 2028 to 2031.
3. Administration disputes claim
An administration lawyer argued Disney would retain its licenses through the administrative process and judicial review. The FCC had not ordered an early license review in more than 50 years, and the judge questioned why this case warranted one. The FCC is also investigating ABC’s “The View” over whether equal-opportunity rules for political candidates apply.
