Media News Daily: Top Stories for 11/12/2026

Reporters Without Borders Calls for Brendan Carr’s Impeachment

Reporters Without Borders is urging the incoming Congress to impeach FCC Chair Brendan Carr, accusing him of using the agency’s regulatory authority to pressure media organizations and undermine press freedom. The group cited FCC investigations involving broadcasters, scrutiny of media mergers, and Carr’s handling of ownership rules, and said this is the first time in its history it has called for the removal of a U.S. official. Carr and his allies have defended the FCC’s actions as legitimate regulatory oversight, while congressional Democrats are preparing increased scrutiny of the agency next year. (Read More) (The Hill Rating)

Judge Limits Discovery in Kash Patel’s Atlantic Lawsuit

A federal judge has largely paused discovery sought by FBI Director Kash Patel in his $250 million defamation lawsuit against The Atlantic while the court considers the magazine’s motion to dismiss. Patel sued over reporting alleging excessive drinking and erratic behavior, claims he disputes. Judge Emmet Sullivan rejected arguments for broad access to The Atlantic’s reporting materials and confidential source information at this stage, though both sides can seek certain government records. The ruling is procedural and does not determine whether The Atlantic’s reporting was accurate or whether Patel was defamed. (Read More) (Axios Rating)

Press Forward Reaches $600 Million Journalism Goal Early

Press Forward has invested nearly $600 million in journalism organizations, reaching its original funding goal roughly two years ahead of schedule. The nonprofit initiative, launched in 2023 to strengthen local news, now includes 144 funders and 50 local chapters, which have invested $87 million in their communities. The milestone comes as economic pressure on local journalism continues, with Northwestern University reporting that the number of U.S. news deserts increased 12% this year to 238 counties. Press Forward says it will continue fundraising while expanding grants, loans, collaboration, and policy work aimed at creating more sustainable local news organizations. (Read More) (AP News Rating)