*We’re making it easier than ever to take action with us: If we already have your information in our records, you just need to click one of the links or buttons below to instantly sign the petition.* |
Tell the FCC: No More Media Consolidation
Friend,
Right now, broadcast-media conglomerates are not allowed to amass a network of local stations that reaches more than 39 percent of the national audience. The particulars of this national-cap rule are complicated, but what you need to know is that we have safeguards in place in this country — albeit imperfect ones — to prevent a small group of media owners from totally dominating the airwaves.
As it stands, I’m sure we can all think of media syndicates (Fox, Sinclair) that drive much of the national conversation, often spreading propaganda in a ready-for-primetime package. This is what happens when you allow far too few companies to own far too many broadcast stations — so you can imagine how much more dangerous it would be without that national broadcast-ownership cap in place.
But in yet another gift to Big Media, Brendan Carr’s FCC is on the verge of ditching the cap. This administration — more intertwined with powerful corporations than any other in history — is about to grant another favor to the billionaire class of media owners by weakening national broadcast-ownership limits.
We’re submitting comments to the FCC opposing this massive transfer of power to corporate giants — add your name if you’re with us. *One click on the link or button will instantly add your name to our petition if we have your details on file.*
To FCC Commissioners:
I oppose the FCC’s proposed elimination of the national broadcast-ownership cap because it will lead to even more media consolidation. This will reduce my access to diverse viewpoints and civic information in my local media market, undermining free speech and democracy.
Do not loosen media-ownership limits.
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Free Press’ research on this topic has yielded several key findings:
- The FCC’s proposed rule change will unleash a scourge of media mergers. These often lead to mass newsroom layoffs as these companies consolidate their power and cut back on costs.
- The FCC doesn’t actually have the authority to change this national broadcast-ownership rule: Congress retained that authority for itself.
But the predatory Trump administration is forging ahead anyway and we will be there to push back. We need you to add your name today to oppose the expansion of media conglomerates.
This FCC proceeding is another reminder of the importance of supporting independent local journalism as the nation’s most powerful media companies cozy up to an authoritarian Trump regime. Free Press Action is already leading grassroots efforts in the states to craft public policy that supports local news.1
As always, we’re keeping up the fight for honest journalism and community-information needs on every possible front.
Thanks for your support,
Tim and the rest of us at Free Press
P.S. Check out our newly launched Media Capitulation Index to learn which media companies have caved the most to Trump pressure.
1. “Free Press Action Launches 'Local News for the People,' a Collaborative Blueprint for Community-Centered Media,” Free Press, Feb. 25, 2025
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