Media News Daily: Top Stories for 02/13/2026

Trump’s Lawsuit Against BBC Over Panorama Edit Set for 2027 Trial

President Donald Trump’s multibillion-dollar defamation lawsuit against the BBC will proceed to trial on February 15, 2027. A Florida judge rejected the BBC’s effort to delay document disclosure tied to a 2021 episode of Panorama that spliced portions of Trump’s January 6 speech. While the BBC apologized for the unclear edit, it denies defamation. The lawsuit claims the edited version falsely suggested Trump incited violence and was broadcast via BritBox in Florida, an assertion the BBC disputes. Read More (The Guardian Rating)

Lawmakers Warn Nexstar–Tegna Merger Threatens Local Journalism

Senators raised concerns at a Commerce Committee hearing over Nexstar Media Group’s proposed $3.5 billion acquisition of Tegna Inc. The merger would create the largest U.S. regional TV operator, controlling 265 stations and reaching nearly 80% of households. Critics, including Senator Maria Cantwell, say it would reduce local news coverage and eliminate independent voices. President Trump supports the deal as a blow to “Fake News,” but bipartisan resistance highlights fears over media concentration and loss of community-rooted journalism. Read More (The Fulcrum Rating)

Trump Administration Sued for Censoring ICE Reporting Tools

The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression has sued the Trump administration, alleging it coerced Apple Inc. and Meta Platforms to remove tools used to report ICE activity. The suit, filed on behalf of a Chicago Facebook group and the Eyes Up app, claims Attorney General Pamela Bondi and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem violated the First Amendment. Officials argue the platforms endangered ICE agents, but plaintiffs say the content was lawful speech and critical of immigration enforcement, not threatening. Read More (MediaPost Rating)