Trump Threatens ABC, NBC License Revocation Over Coverage

President Donald Trump launched a vehement attack on ABC and NBC, accusing them of biased and unfair coverage against Republicans and conservatives, claiming they produce predominantly negative stories about him despite his popularity. He demanded that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) revoke their broadcast licenses, labeling the networks as "an arm of the Democrat Party" and a threat to democracy. Trump's tirade followed his viewing of ABC's "This Week with George Stephanopoulos," where topics like FBI raids and geopolitical issues were discussed, provoking his outrage. He also criticized individual journalists and commentators, mocking ABC's Jonathan Karl and former prosecutor Chris Christie. Trump referenced recent $16 million settlements with CBS and ABC over defamation claims, highlighting ongoing legal battles with major news outlets. Despite Trump's claims, ABC and NBC do not hold FCC licenses directly, as those are issued to local station owners, and FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has opened investigations into some network practices amid these tensions.