Media News Daily: Top Stories for 05/01/2026

Texas Court Ruling Disrupts The Onion’s Planned Infowars Takeover

A Texas appeals court issued a late ruling temporarily blocking the transfer of Infowars to a federal receiver, casting uncertainty over a planned acquisition by satirical outlet The Onion. The deal, arranged through Global Tetrahedron and receiver Gregory S. Milligan, would have allowed leasing of Infowars’ studio and intellectual property, with backing from Sandy Hook families owed over $1 billion in defamation damages. Despite the ruling, Infowars is expected to cease broadcasting due to unpaid rent, reportedly $81,000 per month. Alex Jones indicated the platform would likely shut down while continuing operations elsewhere. Read More (Mother Jones Rating)

Meta Warns It May Exit New Mexico Over Child Safety Legal Battle

Meta has warned it could withdraw Facebook and Instagram from New Mexico if a pending bench trial results in strict operational mandates. The legal dispute stems from a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Raúl Torrez, alleging harm to minors and violations of consumer protection laws, which led to a $375 million jury award against the company. The state seeks sweeping changes, including limits on features like infinite scroll and usage caps for minors. Meta argues such requirements are impractical and infringe on free speech, while state officials dismiss the withdrawal threat as a “PR stunt.” Read More (News From the States Rating)

Trump Nominates Fox News Contributor Nicole Saphier for Surgeon General

President Donald Trump has withdrawn his nomination of Casey Means for surgeon general and replaced her with Dr. Nicole Saphier, a Fox News contributor and radiologist. Means faced opposition from Republican senators over her vaccine-related views, ultimately failing to secure sufficient support. Trump praised Saphier’s medical expertise and communication skills, marking the administration’s third attempt to fill the role. If confirmed, Saphier would leave her media position and assume the post amid ongoing political divisions over public health leadership. Read More (The Hill Rating)