Mon Sep 22 10:39:51 UTC 2025: **FCC Under Fire for Possible Overreach in Jimmy Kimmel-Charlie Kirk Controversy**
**Washington D.C.** – Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr is facing scrutiny over his call for action against ABC and late-night host Jimmy Kimmel following comments Kimmel made about the suspect in the Charlie Kirk assassination. Legal experts and publications are questioning whether Carr overstepped the agency’s authority and potentially infringed on free speech.
The controversy arose after Kimmel, on his show “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” suggested the alleged shooter of conservative activist Charlie Kirk was “one of them” (referring to MAGA supporters) and aired a clip of Trump seemingly downplaying Kirk’s death.
Carr responded by appearing on a conservative podcast, stating that broadcasters have a public interest obligation due to their FCC-granted licenses and suggested possible FCC action if ABC didn’t address Kimmel’s comments.
Following Carr’s remarks, two companies that own ABC affiliates, Nexstar and Sinclair, preempted Kimmel’s show. Nexstar is currently seeking FCC approval for a merger with Tegna, while both Nexstar and Sinclair are petitioning the FCC to repeal a rule limiting broadcasting companies from reaching over 39% of households.
Critics argue Carr’s actions constitute “government coercion,” violating First Amendment rights. They point to a recent Supreme Court ruling (National Rifle Association v Vullo) that restricts regulators from using threats to discourage companies from doing business with groups based on their views.
The FCC’s power to regulate broadcasters is rooted in the Communications Act of 1934, requiring licensees to serve the “public interest.” However, experts note that the FCC’s power is not a “blank cheque,” particularly when it comes to regulating content.
While the FCC prohibits “news distortion,” experts believe it’s difficult to apply that standard to Kimmel, whose show airs on ABC’s entertainment division and whose comments can be interpreted as opinion, not necessarily factual distortion. Anna Gomez, the only Democrat on the FCC, spoke out against Carr’s actions on CNN.
The FCC did not respond to requests for comment.
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