The licenses in question are not scheduled for renewal until 2028 through 2031, making the current probe an extraordinary departure from normal procedure. Lawyers for the Trump administration countered that the investigation is an anti-discrimination probe into diversity and hiring practices. The government also contended that the district court lacks jurisdiction over the case, asserting it should instead be heard in a circuit court of appeals.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Disney Sues to Block FCC Review of 8 ABC Station Licenses Before 2028 Deadline
US Politics15 days ago
Attorney Beth Wilkinson argued in federal court that the U.S. government is retaliating against ABC Television for its editorial decisions and news coverage. Representing Disney, Wilkinson requested a preliminary injunction from Judge Loren AliKhan to stop the Federal Communications Commission from prematurely reviewing the broadcast licenses of eight network stations. The filing claims the agency is using regulatory power to punish the broadcaster in violation of the First Amendment, specifically mentioning the network's hosting of Jimmy Kimmel.
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