ABC Television Network filed a motion in federal court on Tuesday seeking an injunction that would stop the Trump administration from conducting an early review of the network’s broadcast licenses, arguing that the move threatens free‑speech protections ahead of the November midterm elections.
Representing ABC, the network’s lawyer described the proposed review as “a looming execution by guillotine,” saying the threat alone is already chilling the network’s editorial decisions in the weeks leading up to the election.
The review, which the administration plans to carry out through the Federal Communications Commission, is described as “unusual” and “early” because it would precede the routine renewal process that typically follows a set schedule.
ABC contends that the timing of the FCC action, coming just weeks before voters head to the polls, could suppress dissenting viewpoints and influence the public discourse surrounding the midterm contests.
The request now rests with a federal judge, who must determine whether to grant the injunction and halt the FCC’s review while the legal challenge proceeds.
<small>Source: PBS NewsHour — read the original story there.</small>
