Overview
- ABC filed early renewal applications for its eight owned‑and‑operated stations on Thursday, May 28, 2026, while formally protesting the FCC’s April order as unlawful and a First Amendment threat.
- The FCC says it invoked a rarely used 'call‑up' to accelerate review because of an investigation into Disney/ABC’s diversity, equity and inclusion practices and possible unlawful discrimination.
- ABC argues the timing of the order — issued days after President Donald Trump publicly attacked Jimmy Kimmel — shows the move is meant to punish editorial speech and to chill newsroom decisions.
- The agency has published a public notice that allows for public comment and the designation of the stations for hearings, a process that can stretch for years and that could lead to administrative rulings or court appeals.
- Legal teams on both sides are preparing for protracted fights over how far the FCC can use licensing power to police content or company policies, a dispute that could reshape broadcaster obligations and affect local news coverage.