Trump admin probe into ABC amid Kimmel row sparks US free speech concerns
Summary
President Donald Trump’s administration is reviewing the broadcast licenses of several ABC channels following calls by Trump and Melania Trump to fire ABC host Jimmy Kimmel over a joke. Critics and some politicians say this investigation threatens free speech and accuse the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) of using political influence to target Trump’s critics.Key Facts
- The FCC launched a probe into eight local ABC channels, requiring early license renewals over potential “unlawful discrimination” related to diversity measures.
- The investigation came shortly after President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump called for Jimmy Kimmel to be fired over a joke he made about Melania.
- Critics, including free speech groups and politicians, say the probe is politically motivated to punish Trump critics.
- Reporters Without Borders and Amnesty International condemned the FCC’s actions as threats to press freedom.
- Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, also opposed the FCC review, saying the government should not censor speech.
- Jimmy Kimmel defended his joke as a “light roast” and denied it was a call for violence.
- ABC has not taken any action against Kimmel following the controversy.
- This is not the first time Trump’s administration or allies have targeted Kimmel and ABC over his comedy.
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