Walt Disney Co. has filed a lawsuit and a motion for a temporary restraining order to block the Federal Communications Commission from conducting an early review of licenses for eight of its owned-and-operated ABC television stations.
Disney’s legal action, filed in U.S. District Court in Washington, follows the FCC’s designation of the licenses for hearing on Thursday. The company argues the agency’s move amounts to an improper sanction and an unconstitutional restriction on free speech. Disney contends the FCC is attempting to pressure a network that refuses to comply with the administration’s demands, describing the action as an extraordinary assault on free speech.
The FCC agreed to provide at least 48 hours’ advance notice before issuing any hearing designation order, according to court filings. Disney requested U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan schedule a hearing by Tuesday to consider its motion for the restraining order.
The U.S. Justice Department opposed Disney’s request for an urgent hearing, arguing that an immediate proceeding is unnecessary. The department stated that the hearing designation process does not impose sanctions and allows for an administrative review where Disney and ABC would have the opportunity to present their case. The Justice Department also noted that the FCC’s actions do not constitute punishment.
The legal dispute unfolds amid heightened political scrutiny of broadcasters. Former President Donald Trump has publicly called for the revocation of ABC’s licenses and urged broadcasters to cancel programs critical of his administration. The FCC has not yet issued a final order in the matter.
