Media News Daily: Top Stories for 05/20/2026

FCC Accused of Delaying Nexstar-TEGNA Merger Review

Public interest groups challenging Nexstar Media Group’s $6.2 billion acquisition of TEGNA have accused the FCC of intentionally delaying action on appeals tied to the merger approval. In a filing before the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals, the groups argued the agency’s inaction prevents meaningful judicial review while allowing Nexstar to continue integrating TEGNA’s assets. Critics say the merger expands media consolidation beyond FCC ownership limits through regulatory waivers. The dispute parallels separate litigation in California seeking to unwind the acquisition entirely. Read More (The Desk Rating)

NPR Cuts Newsroom Jobs Amid Funding Crisis

NPR is restructuring its newsroom and eliminating reporting and editing positions as it prepares for life without federal subsidies. CEO Katherine Maher said the network faces an $8 million budget gap tied to reduced station fees and declining corporate sponsorship revenue. The overhaul comes as NPR attempts to adapt to changing audience habits while maintaining flagship programs such as Morning Edition and All Things Considered. Read More (Editor & Publisher Rating)

RSF Accuses Israel of Abusing Gaza Journalists

Reporters Without Borders released interviews with Palestinian journalists from Gaza who described severe mistreatment during detention by Israeli authorities following the October 7 attacks. The journalists alleged targeted arrests related to their reporting work, violent interrogations, torture, and prolonged imprisonment under Israel’s “unlawful combatants” law. RSF accused the Israeli military, Shin Bet, and judicial system of systematically persecuting journalists to suppress coverage of the conflict, while Israeli officials denied intentionally targeting reporters. Read More (Reporters Without Borders Rating)