Swamp Notes An FCC insider on Kimmel, TV and free speech
Sep 26, 2025
Gigi Sohn, a former FCC counselor and current public advocate at the Benton Institute, joins to discuss the implications of Jimmy Kimmel's return and the pressures on broadcast networks. She highlights how political backlash can influence media programming decisions, citing the unique leverage the FCC holds. Sohn also explores the evolving landscape of broadcast regulation amid fears of a new era of censorship in America, emphasizing the importance of free speech and the reach of broadcast TV in shaping political discourse.
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Inside Disney's Tight Decision Circle
- Disney's leadership (Bob Iger and Dana Walden) met in a small circle and chose to suspend Jimmy Kimmel.
- The indefinite suspension phrasing escalated backlash and made the decision seem permanent.
FCC Has Real But Limited Enforcement Power
- The FCC can revoke or deny renewal of broadcast licenses and levy fines against networks.
- Such moves would likely fail in court if used to punish content in this case.
Mergers Are Regulatory Leverage Points
- Corporate transactions create leverage points where regulators or the administration can apply pressure.
- Disney's pending deals make it vulnerable to cross-agency influence beyond just the FCC.