Trump admin fights ABC lawsuit as watchdogs worry Disney will settle with FCC

The FCC is seeking to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Disney, which alleges that the agency is retaliating against ABC for political content. Watchdog groups are concerned that Disney may settle the case in a way that compromises the public interest.
Why it matters
The case represents a significant legal battle over media independence, regulatory oversight, and the potential for political influence on broadcast licensing.
Disney v. FCC Trump admin fights ABC lawsuit as watchdogs worry Disney will settle with FCC FCC tells court it is “open-minded” about whether ABC should lose licenses.
15 A Disney store on August 27, 2026 in London, England. Credit: Getty Images | Mike Kemp A Disney store on August 27, 2026 in London, England. Credit: Getty Images | Mike Kemp Text settings Story text Size Small Standard Large Width * Standard Wide Links Standard Orange * Subscribers only Learn more Minimize to nav The Federal Communications Commission yesterday urged a court to dismiss a Disney lawsuit and let the FCC continue a proceeding that could end in the nonrenewal of ABC’s broadcast licenses.
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