Trump's FCC nominee sends Disney warning letter over ABC

[SpankMe]

7. Two non-rhetorical questions:

1. Has any other FCC chair done this?
2. What role does the federal government have in network/affiliate contract negotiations?

On question 2, I know that there is law requiring that TV and radio stations "serve the public interest". This has been given wide latitude to cover everything from Walter Cronkite evening news broadcasts to right-wing religious radio. The public is encouraged to provide comment to the FCC with complaints as to whether or not the station is serving the public interest. In theory, this feedback is taken into account during broadcast license renewals. Licenses cover only frequency allocation and broadcast power. Not content. The widest possible first amendment latitude is afforded these licensing decisions.

For an FCC to send what is clearly a threat letter like this East German Stasi stuff that is pretty far away from 1st amendment principles. Democrats in congress should agitate for investigation.

Weaponization of government, indeed.