Media News Daily: Top Stories for 10/12/2026

DOJ Probes Networks Over White House Pool Boycott

The Justice Department is investigating whether television networks violated antitrust law when the White House press pool temporarily halted coverage of President Donald Trump after CNN, MS NOW, and Politico were barred from White House access. A DOJ spokesperson said coordinated boycotts among business competitors can raise antitrust concerns and that the department is examining whether the broadcasters’ actions crossed that line. The networks later resumed pool coverage, while press-freedom advocates criticized the investigation as potentially intimidating to news organizations defending access. (Read More) (Washington Sun Rating)

Groups Challenge FCC Repeal of TV Ownership Cap

A coalition of nonprofit organizations and labor groups has filed an emergency petition seeking to block the FCC’s repeal of the national television ownership rule, which limited a single broadcaster’s reach to 39% of U.S. households. The challengers argue that Congress established the cap and that the FCC lacks authority to eliminate it on its own. They also warn that greater consolidation could reduce local media competition, increase retransmission fees, and threaten newsroom jobs. Cable industry groups are separately preparing legal challenges to the repeal. (Read More) (Truthout Rating)

Meta Pushes Back on Data Center Criticism

Meta has published a new explainer responding to growing criticism of the water use, power demands, and local economic effects of large AI data centers. The company argues that its facilities operate within local water plans, coordinate utility upgrades in advance, and create construction and permanent jobs. The campaign comes as communities across the country debate or restrict hyperscale data center development over concerns about infrastructure, utilities, and environmental impacts. Meta is investing heavily in new data centers to support its expanding artificial intelligence operations. (Read More) (Social Media Today Rating)