ABC has initiated an on-air campaign to garner public support as it faces multiple proceedings before the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), led by Chairman Brendan Carr. The campaign debuted during 'The View' and will extend across the network's owned stations. It includes messages urging viewers to express their opinions regarding the FCC's investigation into whether 'The View' qualifies as a 'bona fide' news program and the review of local broadcast licenses.
One spot features a clip of Barbara Walters, stating, 'The View has welcomed your favorite guests for nearly 30 years. Now the FCC wants to control who is allowed to appear on the show. Tell the FCC to let the viewers decide.' Another spot highlights ABC7's long-standing service to the New York area, urging viewers to advocate for local station WABC amid FCC threats to revoke its broadcast license.
The campaign represents a significant public escalation in the ongoing regulatory battle, which ABC argues is an infringement on its First Amendment rights. The FCC's investigation into 'The View' relates to a potential reclassification of what constitutes 'bona fide' news programs, which could impact various shows traditionally exempt from equal time rules. The comments on the investigation are due by July 6, while comments regarding the broadcast licenses are due by July 29. ABC has filed its license renewals 'under protest,' asserting that the FCC's actions represent coercion against editorial voices.