Disney sues US regulator over alleged Trump threats to broadcast licenses

American entertainment giant Disney and its owned television network ABC have filed a lawsuit against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The legal action aims to prevent an early review of broadcast licenses for eight ABC stations, which Disney argues is a politically motivated attempt to punish the network for its content.

The lawsuit, filed in a Washington D.C. federal court, contends that the Trump administration is using the early review process to retaliate against ABC for programming critical of the president or his administration. Disney asserts that the FCC is trying to force and punish "a network that refuses to bend to the administration's demands."

“

a network that refuses to bend to the administration's demands.

Disney has characterized the FCC's actions as an "extraordinary attack on freedom of speech." President Trump has repeatedly urged television companies to drop programming he dislikes or that has been critical of him. He has also pressured the FCC on multiple occasions to revoke ABC's broadcast licenses.

The FCC, established in 1934, is responsible for issuing licenses for radio and television frequencies and setting regulations for content, including rules on sponsor transparency and indecent or offensive material. The lawsuit highlights ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and media outlets critical of its policies.

“

extraordinary attack on freedom of speech