Threats against Disney from Democratic FCC Commissioner deemed as "vacuous" or "hollow"
In a recent appearance at the Axios Media Trends summit in New York, Democratic FCC commissioner Anna Gomez expressed her concerns about the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) threats towards media companies, particularly Disney, over comments made by Jimmy Kimmel on his late night show.
Gomez, the lone Democratic commissioner on the FCC, views the threats as part of a campaign of censorship and control by the current administration. She believes the FCC is weaponizing its licensing authority to bring broadcasters to heel and make them think twice about their comments about the administration.
During the summit, Gomez was asked about the FCC's investigations into media companies over DEI practices or content concerns. She stated that the FCC's actions are not due to the broadcasts inciting violence or breaking the law, but rather because they speak about the administration in a way disliked by the administration. This, she argues, is contrary to the First Amendment and the Communications Act.
Gomez mentioned that enforcement proceedings by the FCC often have market consequences and are usually kept confidential. However, she indicated that she has little insight into the FCC's investigations due to being kept out of the loop by her Republican colleagues.
There is a potential connection between the FCC's threats and a multibillion-dollar TV deal. Gomez alluded to a difference in this administration regarding the confidentiality of FCC's enforcement proceedings, hinting that the current administration may be using these threats for political leverage.
In the past, former President Trump has suggested that broadcast networks should lose their FCC licenses for treating him unfairly. Gomez considers the threats as "truly empty" and believes that corporate capitulation erodes democracy and First Amendment freedoms.
Anna Gomez was asked to moderate by Sara Fischer at the Axios Media Trends summit. She also commented on Disney's decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel's show, stating that she has little insight into the decision-making process. However, she believes that such decisions can have a chilling effect on free speech and creative expression.
Gomez's comments highlight the ongoing debate about the role of the FCC in regulating media content and the potential impact of political pressure on these decisions. As the FCC investigations continue, Gomez's stance on the issue is likely to remain a key point of discussion.
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