A bipartisan coalition led by the Media and Democracy Project (MAD) has filed comments with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) calling for a hearing on the broadcast license application of WTXF-TV, a FOX affiliate. The group, which includes former FCC officials, legal experts, and media advocates, argues that this case presents an opportunity for the FCC to establish clear guidelines on when a broadcast license hearing is necessary.
The coalition’s filing emphasizes that their petition is not about political speech or bias, but rather focuses on what they describe as a deliberate decision by Fox and the Murdoch family to spread false information about the 2020 election. Brian Hansbury, Co-Founder of MAD, stated, ‘Our petition is not about speech or political slant—it’s about the deliberate business decision by the Murdochs and Fox to lie to the American people about the 2020 election to protect the company’s profits.’
The group argues that Fox’s actions are incompatible with the character requirements outlined in the Communications Act. They are urging the FCC to use this case to establish a ‘bright-line test’ that would provide clear guidance on when a hearing is required for license renewals. This move could have significant implications for broadcast media accountability and the public’s trust in news organizations.
Former Murdoch lobbyist Preston Padden highlighted the importance of the FCC taking action, warning that failure to do so could set a dangerous precedent. The coalition’s filing includes references to previous comments from prominent figures in media and politics, including former FCC Chairman Alfred Sikes, former FCC Commissioner Ervin S. Duggan, and First Amendment attorney Floyd Abrams.
The case centers around Fox’s coverage of the 2020 election and its aftermath. The coalition argues that Fox’s behavior, as described in the US Dominion, Inc. v. Fox News Network case, is inconsistent with the FCC’s character requirements for broadcast licensees. They contend that Fox’s actions contributed to the January 6 riot at the Capitol and misled millions of Americans about the election results.
This challenge to Fox’s broadcast license renewal comes at a time of increased scrutiny of media organizations and their role in shaping public opinion. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for how the FCC evaluates the character and fitness of broadcast licensees in the future.
The coalition’s filing urges the FCC to consider this case as distinct from routine complaints about political bias in media. They argue that it represents a clear violation of the public interest standard that broadcasters are required to uphold. By establishing a bright-line test, the FCC could provide clearer guidelines for broadcasters and potentially strengthen the integrity of broadcast media.
As the FCC considers this petition, the media industry and public interest groups will be watching closely. The decision could set an important precedent for how regulatory bodies address issues of truthfulness and public responsibility in broadcasting. It also raises questions about the balance between free speech protections and the obligations of broadcasters operating on public airwaves.
The Media and Democracy Project, which initiated this action, describes itself as a non-partisan, grassroots organization focused on strengthening free and independent media in the public interest. Their involvement in this case underscores the growing concern among some groups about the impact of misinformation on democratic processes.
As this case progresses, it is likely to spark further debate about the role of media in democracy, the responsibilities of broadcasters, and the FCC’s authority in regulating broadcast content. The outcome could have lasting implications for the media landscape and the public’s trust in broadcast news.
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