FCC Opens Early Comment Period on ABC License Renewal Amid Trump Retaliation Claims

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has opened an early public comment period until June 29 for the renewal of ABC's broadcast licenses for eight local TV stations, following a controversial decision in late April to force early renewal. Critics view the move as retaliation against ABC for its coverage of Donald Trump, especially after Trump and Melania lobbied for the cancellation of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night show. FCC Chair Brendan Carr claims the decision stems from an investigation into Disney's DEI practices, but ABC argues this is a pretext. The conservative Center for American Rights plans to file a petition to deny renewal on multiple grounds. ABC has hired Supreme Court litigator Paul Clement. The process could take years, with licenses not expiring until 2031. Separately, the FCC is investigating ABC's talk show "The View" for potential equal-time rule violations, with public comments accepted until June 22. Telecommunications lawyer Andrew Schwartzman notes ABC has "drawn a line in the sand" by challenging both actions.