Story perspectives

Trump-Linked Sinclair Faces Backlash Amid Nexstar Controversy

2/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Under U.S. President Donald Trump, Sinclair instructed its news anchors to deliver a scripted message warning against media bias.
Sinclair tried to merge with Tegna but was outbid by Nexstar, which controls over 250 stations.
Nexstar faced backlash for pulling Jimmy Kimmel's show after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr suggested licensing consequences.
Trump called competition against 'fake news' networks, while Newsmax and progressives oppose Nexstar deal, citing threats to independent media.

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Story summary

Under U.S. President Donald Trump, Sinclair instructed its news anchors to deliver a scripted message warning against media bias.
Sinclair tried to merge with Tegna but was outbid by Nexstar, which controls over 250 stations.
Nexstar faced backlash for pulling Jimmy Kimmel's show after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr suggested licensing consequences.
Trump called competition against 'fake news' networks, while Newsmax and progressives oppose Nexstar deal, citing threats to independent media.