FCC Approval of Nexstar-Tegna Merger Sparks Backlash

The merger, which creates the largest owner of local TV news in the United States, will grant Nexstar control over outlets reaching 80% of American households. Commissioner Anna Gomez, the sole Democrat on the commission, condemned the approval process as opaque, noting that the decision was finalized behind closed doors without a full commission vote or meaningful public scrutiny.

Critics argue the consolidation serves as a vehicle for partisan interests. Matt Wood of Free Press described the move as the construction of a propaganda machine aligned with the Trump administration, while John Bergmayer of Public Knowledge warned that the deal would inevitably lead to further newsroom cuts and staff layoffs, as Nexstar historically prioritizes market overlap efficiency over editorial diversity. Despite the FCC’s endorsement, the acquisition faces significant legal hurdles. A coalition of eight state attorneys general has filed an antitrust lawsuit to block the transaction, with California Attorney General Rob Bonta labeling the deal illegal and harmful to the competitive landscape of local journalism.