Senate Hearing Examines Nexstar-TEGNA Merger and Broadcast Ownership Rules

The proposed merger between Nexstar Media Group and TEGNA has sparked significant debate among lawmakers, media executives, and industry experts. If approved, the merger would create a broadcasting entity capable of reaching approximately 80% of U.S. television households, far exceeding the current Federal Communications Commission (FCC) ownership cap of 39%. This cap restricts any single broadcaster from owning stations that reach more than that percentage of households. The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a hearing on February 10, 2026, to discuss the implications of this potential consolidation on local journalism and media competition.

Broadcast ownership rules spark debate over local journalism, competition at Senate hearingThe HillWZMQ - Marquette NewsThe DeskWashington ExaminerDeadline HollywoodReuters

Supporters of the merger, including Curtis LeGeyt, President and CEO of the National Association of Broadcasters, argue that the current ownership rules are outdated and hinder broadcasters' ability to compete in a digital landscape dominated by tech giants like Google and Amazon. LeGeyt contended that achieving greater scale is essential for local broadcasters to survive financially and continue providing quality journalism. He cited data indicating that as broadcasters have gained scale, the number of local news telecasts and hours of locally produced news has increased.

The Desk

Critics, including Chris Ruddy, CEO of Newsmax, expressed concerns that the merger would lead to fewer independent voices in local news. Ruddy warned that larger station groups like Nexstar could leverage their size to extract higher retransmission fees from cable operators, ultimately passing those costs onto consumers. He emphasized that consolidation often results in newsroom layoffs and reduced local reporting, countering claims that it would enhance local journalism. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA) echoed these concerns, stating that the merger would not increase local voices but rather diminish them.

Washington Examiner

The hearing revealed a divide among lawmakers regarding the FCC's authority to modify the ownership cap. Some, like Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), argued that the rules are no longer relevant in today's media environment and should be updated to promote competition. Others, including Ruddy and Cantwell, contended that lifting the cap would exacerbate existing issues in local journalism, leading to further consolidation and a reduction in diverse viewpoints.

Senate Hearing Witnesses Spar Over Ownership Caps, the Crisis in Local Journalism

President Donald Trump publicly endorsed the Nexstar-TEGNA merger, stating that it would foster competition against major networks he labels as "Fake News." Trump's support marks a shift from his previous skepticism about lifting the ownership cap. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr aligned with Trump's views, suggesting that the current media landscape necessitates a reevaluation of ownership rules.

Reuters

There is ongoing debate about whether the FCC has the legal authority to raise or eliminate the ownership cap without congressional action. While some legal experts assert that the FCC retains discretion to modify the cap, others argue that it was established by Congress and cannot be changed unilaterally. This uncertainty complicates the regulatory landscape surrounding the merger.

Deadline Hollywood

The fate of the Nexstar-TEGNA merger now rests with the FCC, which is expected to make a decision on the ownership cap in the coming months. The outcome will significantly impact the future of local broadcasting and journalism in the United States, as well as the competitive dynamics between traditional media and digital platforms.

The Hill