FCC Chair Backs Trump on Nexstar-Tegna Merger, Aims to Combat “Fake News”
Former President Donald Trump has expressed his support for the pending merger between Nexstar and Tegna. He shared his views on Truth Social, indicating that this deal could combat what he terms as “Fake News.” Trump believes that increasing competition will benefit viewers and create a more sophisticated media landscape.
Trump Backs Nexstar-Tegna Merger Against “Fake News”
In his post, Trump stated, “We need more competition against THE ENEMY, the Fake News National TV Networks.” He urged those who oppose the merger to reconsider, emphasizing potential benefits for the public. The merger is currently under review by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Details of the Merger
In August, Nexstar and Tegna reached a definitive agreement to merge. This merger would result in Nexstar acquiring:
- 265 local TV stations
- Operations in 44 states and the District of Columbia
- Influence over 132 out of 210 designated market areas (DMAs)
- Coverage of 80% of U.S. TV households
While the FCC has yet to approve the merger, its chairman, Brendan Carr, publicly supported it by resharpening Trump’s post. Carr criticized major networks like Comcast and Disney for having excessive power in the media landscape.
Nexstar’s Vision for Local Journalism
Nexstar’s CEO, Perry Sook, has argued that the acquisition will strengthen local journalism. In November, he stated that this scale would allow for enhanced investment in high-quality journalism and better serving of local communities. Sook emphasized the importance of trusted local news in an era characterized by misinformation.
Regulatory Constraints and Community Access
Sook highlighted that regulatory barriers currently prevent Nexstar from delivering reliable news to many communities. He stressed the necessity for accessible fact-based journalism, especially as political discourse grows increasingly polarized.
Implications of Ongoing Media Deals
Trump recently commented on another significant merger involving Netflix and Paramount Skydance’s bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery. He stated, “I shouldn’t be involved,” regarding the competitive landscape for major entertainment acquisitions.
While Netflix plans to acquire Warner Bros. for $82 million, Paramount has countered with a $108.7 billion hostile bid. Following this, Warner Bros. rejected Paramount’s offer, prompting Paramount to seek legal clarity around Netflix’s acquisition.
Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently defended the acquisition’s potential benefits before the U.S. Senate’s antitrust subcommittee. He asserted that the deal would protect the studio from large tech companies encroaching on the television industry.
