Media News Daily: Top Stories for 09/21/2025

FCC Commissioner: Agency Lacks Authority to Retaliate Against Broadcasters

FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez emphasized that the agency does not have legal authority to retaliate against broadcasters for their content, calling such threats illegal and damaging to press freedom. Speaking on CNN, Gomez criticized political pressure from the Trump administration, warning that the erosion of First Amendment protections is a threat to democracy. Her comments follow the indefinite suspension of Jimmy Kimmel Live after the host made controversial remarks about the killing of conservative figure Charlie Kirk. The suspension was preceded by comments from FCC Chair Brendan Carr suggesting broadcasters face consequences if similar content airs in the future. Read More (The Hill Rating)

Judge Dismisses Trump’s $15 Billion Defamation Suit Against The New York Times

A federal judge in Florida has dismissed President Donald Trump’s defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, calling the 85-page filing overly verbose and legally deficient. The complaint, which included personal grievances and off-topic commentary, was criticized for delaying substantive legal claims until page 80. Judge Steven Merryday gave Trump 28 days to submit a revised, more concise complaint. The lawsuit centered on pre-election coverage by Times reporters about Trump’s finances and business history. The Times called the case meritless and an attempt to intimidate the press. Read More (PBS NewsHour Rating)

Trump Defends FCC Chair Carr After Cruz Warns of Threat to Press Freedom

President Trump defended FCC Chair Brendan Carr amid bipartisan backlash over Carr’s warning to ABC following Jimmy Kimmel’s controversial comments. Sen. Ted Cruz criticized Carr’s remarks as resembling mafia-like intimidation, warning that such threats could backfire on conservatives. Carr had warned that broadcasters should avoid airing content like Kimmel’s or risk FCC scrutiny. Trump dismissed Cruz’s concerns, calling Carr a “great American patriot” and doubling down on criticism of mainstream media. Carr’s statements have sparked debate over the boundaries of FCC authority and media independence. Read More (News Facts Network Rating)