The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is the United States’ independent agency responsible for regulating interstate communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. It plays a major role in the regulation of media outlets and has the potential to exert significant influence on the nation’s media landscape. In a second term, President Trump could use the FCC to make changes to media regulations that could benefit his political interests and or undermine the independence of the press. These changes could have a significant impact on the media industry and the public’s access to information.
Regulatory Capture and the FCCs Independence
Regulatory Capture and the FCC’s Independence
Regulatory capture occurs when a regulatory agency is unduly influenced by the industries it is supposed to regulate. This can lead to the agency issuing regulations that favor the industry’s interests over the interests of the public. Concerns have been raised that the FCC could be subject to regulatory capture under the Trump administration. President Trump has appointed a number of industry insiders to the FCC, and he has also proposed legislation that would make it more difficult for the FCC to regulate the telecommunications industry. If President Trump were to win a second term, he could further weaponize the FCC against the media by using it to:
- Impose burdensome regulations on media outlets critical of his administration
- Investigate and punish media outlets that publish stories that are unflattering to him
- Use the FCC’s bully pulpit to attack the media and undermine its credibility
Suppression of Critical Media Narrative and Censorship
Previous concerns about the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) potential attempts to stifle dissenting viewpoints and impose censorship on the media have been reignited by the prospect of Trump running again. These anxieties are founded on Trump’s frequent criticism of the media and his demonstrated willingness to employ any means necessary to silence his critics.
| Concerns Surrounding FCC and Trump | Potential Consequences |
|—|—|
| FCC could potentially use its power to revoke licenses or impose fines on media organizations deemed critical of the Trump administration. | Chilling effect on critical reporting, leading to a less informed public. |
| FCC could implement regulations that restrict media outlets from engaging in certain types of reporting or expressing certain viewpoints. | Suppression of voices that offer alternative perspectives, creating an echo chamber and stifling democratic discourse. |
| FCC could appoint commissioners who share the administration’s views, ensuring that the agency acts as a tool for political retaliation rather than a neutral arbiter of media policy. | Erosion of trust in media institutions and a weakened Fourth Estate, undermining the ability of the press to hold those in power accountable. |
Implications for Freedom of Expression and Public Discourse
The consequences for freedom of expression and public discourse could be dire. Trump has repeatedly attacked the media, calling them “the enemy of the people” and accusing them of spreading “fake news.” If he were to appoint FCC commissioners who share his views, they could use their power to silence critical voices in the media. This would create a chilling effect on freedom of speech, making it more difficult for journalists to report on important issues without fear of reprisal. It would also make it more difficult for the public to access information about their government and hold it accountable.
Countering the Threat: Recommendations and Safeguards
To counter this threat, several recommendations and safeguards are proposed: Enforce transparency rules: Require the FCC to disclose all meetings and communications with the president, vice president, and their staff regarding media regulation. Increase congressional oversight: Establish a congressional oversight committee dedicated to monitoring the FCC’s actions related to media regulation. Appoint independent commissioners: Require the FCC commissioners to be appointed by a nonpartisan body, such as a judicial nominating commission. Protect journalistic independence: Codify the First Amendment protections for journalists and media outlets into law, making it more difficult for the government to target them.
To Wrap It Up
Speculation about Trump’s potential future actions as they relate to the FCC and the media are based on his previous behavior and statements, as well as his administration’s actions to date. While it is impossible to say with certainty what he would do if re-elected, his past actions and statements provide some insight into his potential approach. Only time will tell the extent to which Trump would seek to weaponize the FCC against the media if he were to win a second term.