Trump suggests revoking licenses of channels critical of him: New shifts in the U.S. media landscape
In a sharp turn of his political rhetoric, former U.S.
President Donald Trump made a statement that could fundamentally alter the American media landscape.
During a briefing aboard Air Force One on September 18, he expressed the idea that television channels and programs that openly criticize him personally and his policies might deserve to have their broadcasting licenses revoked.
These comments came amid declining approval ratings, approaching record lows according to recent polls.”They only portray me in a negative light, yet they hold broadcasting licenses,” Trump stated to journalists.
He further added that dishonest TV channels and shows criticizing him and his administration should not be granted licenses to operate.The focus was on popular comedian and TV host Jimmy Kimmel, whose show was suspended following remarks about Trump’s reaction to the death of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk and his critique of the president’s supporters.
Trump accused the program of turning into a tool for political battles and propaganda, suggesting that these developments signal a breakdown in the traditional media ecosystem.”We are entering a period of significant transformation in the media landscape, driven by changes in licensing structures influenced by Trump’s administration,” said FCC Chairman Brendan Carr.
He emphasized that the country is becoming increasingly aware of the long-term consequences of these processes.This media controversy, involving lawsuits and efforts to restrict funding to liberal broadcasters like NPR and PBS, exemplifies Trump’s ongoing attempts to exert control over national information channels.
Whether viewed as free speech or censorship, these actions have sparked intense debate across the United States.