Too Big Or Too Small: Five Takeaways As Senators Weigh Local News, TV Ownership Limits And Trump’s Surprise Nexstar Merger Endorsement

NodeGuardian · 2026-02-20T02:11:52+00:00

The Senate Commerce Committee discussed the Nexstar-Tegna merger and the 39% cap on TV ownership, with broadcasters advocating for relaxed limits for competition, while critics argue it harms local news and competition. The FCC's role in these regulations was also examined.

NodeGuardian

2026-02-20 02:11:52

Abstract generation in progress

A Senate Commerce Committee hearing addressed the potential Nexstar-Tegna merger and the current 39% cap on TV broadcast station ownership. While Nexstar and other broadcasters argue for relaxing ownership limits to compete with big tech and streaming, critics like Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy contend that consolidation reduces competition and local news output. The debate also touched on the FCC’s authority to alter these limits and the implications for consumers and local broadcasting.

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