Post Reports Brendan Carr, the FCC muscle behind Trump's anti-media crusade
Sep 22, 2025
Scott Nover, a media reporter for The Washington Post, delves into the controversial actions of Brendan Carr, the FCC chair, amid the Jimmy Kimmel suspension. Nover reveals Carr's role in the tension between the FCC and media companies, emphasizing his rise as a enforcer for Trump's anti-media stance. The discussion highlights how Carr's comments hinted at punitive measures against networks and explores the political ramifications of his actions. The chat offers insights into the potential legal complexities surrounding FCC authority and media dynamics.
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Kimmel Monologue Sparks Rapid Fallout
- Jimmy Kimmel made a monologue about the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's murder that drew conservative backlash.
- Hours after FCC Chair Brendan Carr's comments, Nexstar and Sinclair pulled Kimmel and ABC temporarily suspended the show.
Government Pressure Versus Market Choice
- ABC was not legally forced by the FCC but the sequence suggested government pressure influenced private editorial choices.
- Scott Nover argues Carr's nudging looks closer to government-driven censorship than market action.
Carr's Evolution From Lawyer To Media Enforcer
- Brendan Carr rose through FCC legal ranks and became a vocal critic of social media moderation.
- His public stance on censorship shifted him toward a more expansive view of FCC influence over content.