Disney is suing the FCC in a departure from former CEO Bob Iger's strategy
Disney has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging that the agency is engaging in retaliatory actions against ABC due to the network's editorial content. The company claims the FCC's review of its broadcast licenses is a violation of the First Amendment.
Why it matters
This case represents a significant legal clash between a major media conglomerate and federal regulators over freedom of the press and political influence.
Disney, under CEO Josh D'Amaro, is suing Brendan Carr's FCC. Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Disney; Eric Lee/Getty Images Disney has sued the FCC, alleging "blatant retaliation" against its content. ABC said the Trump administration has repeatedly "attacked" its speech. Disney's legal strategy under CEO Josh D'Amaro differs from his predecessor's approach. Disney under Josh D'Amaro is pushing back strongly against Donald Trump's Federal Communications Commission. Disney-owned ABC sued the FCC on Tuesday morning, alleging that the government agency is violating the First Amendment and trying to influence editorial content it deems unfriendly to the president. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr initiated a review of ABC's broadcast licenses in late April, shortly after Trump said that ABC should fire comedian Jimmy Kimmel for a joke about Melania Trump . This move was a "blatant retaliation," ABC alleged in its legal filing.
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