Story perspectives

Trump Demands FCC Revoke ABC, NBC Licenses Over Refused Speech

7/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump demanded the FCC revoke ABC’s and NBC’s broadcast licenses after they refused his July 16, 2026 address.
Trump delivered a 25-minute election-security speech from the White House, which networks did not air.
ABC and NBC streamed address online; CBS aired it with commentary.
FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez called the demand ridiculous and said agency lacks authority.
The FCC is reviewing ABC’s licenses and ordered early renewal filings for its eight stations.

History

Historical Context

President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed the Communications Act on June 19, 1934, abolishing the Federal Radio Commission and establishing a five-member Federal Communications Commission to regulate radio, telephone and later television. The FCC’s original power to revoke licenses for stations deemed contrary to the public interest now underpins President Donald Trump’s July 16, 2026 request to strip NBC and ABC of their broadcast permits.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump demanded the FCC revoke ABC’s and NBC’s broadcast licenses after they refused his July 16, 2026 address.
Trump delivered a 25-minute election-security speech from the White House, which networks did not air.
ABC and NBC streamed address online; CBS aired it with commentary.
FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez called the demand ridiculous and said agency lacks authority.
The FCC is reviewing ABC’s licenses and ordered early renewal filings for its eight stations.

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