Online Outpouring Targets JD Vance Following Reemergence of His Passionate Speech on "Free Speech"
In the realm of media and politics, a storm of controversy has erupted over the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel's late-night talk show and the ongoing approval process for Nexstar Media Group's proposed $6.2 billion merger with Tegna.
The Trump administration has been in the spotlight recently, with Vice President JD Vance making a pledge six months ago at the Munich Security Conference to defend free speech under President Donald Trump's leadership. However, critics on social media are questioning Vance's commitment to this promise, following his recent actions and the suspension of Kimmel's show.
Nexstar Media Group, a key player in the merger, halted the airing of Kimmel's show due to concerns about his comments. This decision has sparked outrage from Democratic lawmakers, pundits, and celebrities, who argue that it stifles democracy and enables Trump's authoritarianism.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approval is required for the Nexstar-Tegna merger, but the current information mainly focuses on regulatory and political pressures related to Nexstar's broadcasting decisions rather than an explicit approval status. Nexstar has faced political pressure linked to FCC Chair Carr, and there is no clear public statement of final FCC approval or rejection of the merger in the available information. The process appears ongoing with Nexstar dependent on FCC consent.
Even conservative commentators such as former Fox News host Tucker Carlson have decried the apparent blow against free speech as 'dark.' Critics on social media are speaking out about Vance's clashing vow to defend free speech, with comments such as 'This is not aging well,' 'Nobody was buying his bullshit,' and 'Well THAT was bullshit!' One user on X wrote that Vance's statement only applies if one does not disagree with the views of the Trump administration.
The suspension of Kimmel's show has also led to accusations of hypocrisy towards Vance. A clip of Vance's statement has resurfaced amid the suspension of Kimmel's show, prompting celebrations by Vance and President Trump. Meanwhile, the original article about this topic appeared on HuffPost on September 18, 2025.
It's important to note that The Late Show with Stephen Colbert was canceled earlier this year amid similar plans of a merger between CBS parent company Paramount Global and Skydance Media. Vance took charge of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk's show from the White House and urged citizens to report people to their employers for insensitive comments about it.
As the Nexstar-Tegna merger and the suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live! continue to unfold, the debate over free speech, political influence, and media censorship remains a hot topic in the United States.
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