FCC Chair Brendan Carr Faces Senate Testimony Over Broadcaster License Threats Amid Disney-ABC Controversy

FCC Chair Brendan Carr faced widespread criticism and legal pushback after threatening action against ABC and its affiliate broadcasters over Jimmy Kimmel's comments about conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Commissioner Anna Gomez clarified that the FCC lacks authority to revoke broadcasters' licenses based on content, emphasizing First Amendment protections. Carr agreed to testify before the Senate Commerce Committee, chaired by Sen. Ted Cruz, who condemned Carr's threats as dangerous government censorship, while President Donald Trump praised Carr's stance. Sen. Ed Markey demanded Carr answer questions about the FCC's role and communications with Disney and ABC, but Carr has not responded. Various pro-democracy groups called for Carr's resignation, accusing him of abusing his power to suppress free speech and political satire. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between government regulation, media free speech rights, and political influence within the FCC.