FCC chair threatens to revoke broadcasters’ licenses amid Trump comments on Iran coverage

FCC Chair Threatens License Revocations Over Iran Coverage Amid Trump’s Criticism

Brendan Carr, the Federal Communications Commission’s top official, escalated his scrutiny of broadcast content this weekend, citing recent remarks from President Donald Trump as a catalyst. Carr’s latest round of remarks followed Trump’s accusation on Truth Social that major publications like the New York Times and Wall Street Journal had produced “terrible reporting” regarding the U.S. and Israel’s conflict with Iran. The post was accompanied by a screenshot, which Carr used to underscore his stance.

“Broadcasters must operate in the public interest, and they will lose their licenses if they do not,” Carr wrote.

The FCC licenses television and radio stations but does not extend this authority to networks or affiliated entities, except when those entities themselves hold licenses. It also does not regulate news outlets that rely solely on print and digital platforms, such as the New York Times and Wall Street Journal.

Carr has long advocated for enforcing the FCC’s public interest obligation, which he claims has been neglected for decades. This weekend, he highlighted “hoaxes and distortions” during the 2024 presidential race, suggesting the public has grown skeptical of media credibility. By referencing Trump’s post, Carr marked a shift, applying his criticisms to wartime reporting for the first time.

Trump frequently accuses media outlets of fabricating news when coverage is critical of him, and he has previously called for revoking licenses of broadcasters he perceives as biased. Democratic lawmakers and a few prominent Republicans have criticized the administration’s efforts to pressure media organizations, arguing that Carr’s approach risks undermining journalistic independence.