FCC launches investigation into allegations of censorship on US TV program

Federal Communications Commission Launches Investigation into The View Over Politician Appearance

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has confirmed that it is conducting an investigation into ABC’s daytime talk show The View over a recent appearance by Texas state Representative James Talarico. The probe will examine whether the show violated a new interpretation of the “equal time” rule, which was implemented under President Donald Trump.

According to FCC Chair Brendan Carr, the agency launched the investigation after receiving complaints about the segment in question. Carr stated that there was no censorship involved and that every broadcaster has an obligation to be responsible for their programming, regardless of whether it complies with FCC rules or not.

The controversy surrounding the investigation centers on a new interpretation of the “equal time” rule, which significantly narrows its application to daytime talk shows and late-night comedy programs. The FCC argues that this new interpretation is designed to ensure that no legally qualified candidate for office is unfairly given less access to public airwaves than their opponent.

The investigation follows a recent appearance by Talarico on Colbert’s show, where he discussed his candidacy for the US Senate. After the segment aired, Colbert posted it on the program’s YouTube page, citing concerns about the FCC’s new interpretation of the “equal time” rule.

As part of its investigation, the FCC will examine whether The View complied with the new interpretation of the “equal time” rule. Carr suggested that another possible solution could have been to restrict the broadcast in Texas, where Talarico is running for Senate.

Source: Al Jazeera