Deadline·2026-02-07 20:14Core Viewpoint - Donald Trump endorsed Nexstar's proposed $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, which would create a broadcasting entity reaching 80% of U.S. TV households, emphasizing the need for increased competition against major national networks [1][2]. Group 1: Merger Details - The merger would allow Nexstar to acquire 265 stations across 44 states and the District of Columbia, significantly expanding its reach compared to other station groups [2]. - Nexstar requires a waiver from the FCC due to the current ownership cap that limits entities from owning stations covering more than 39% of the country [2]. Group 2: Regulatory Environment - The FCC is currently reviewing the merger and considering lifting the ownership cap, with Chairman Brendan Carr expressing support for Trump's endorsement [3][4]. - Interest groups have been actively campaigning for and against the merger, with some ads targeting Trump directly, suggesting that the merger could help "defeat fake news" [5][7]. Group 3: Opposition and Concerns - Newsmax, led by a friend of Trump, has urged the FCC to reject the merger, arguing it would lead to increased media consolidation at the expense of localism [7][9]. - Concerns have been raised that Nexstar's dominance could limit local news diversity and increase retransmission fees for non-broadcast providers [8]. Group 4: Political and Industry Reactions - Trump's previous concerns about lifting the ownership cap align with the views of some conservative voices who argue that the merger could harm competition and increase consumer costs [9]. - The National Association of Broadcasters is advocating for lifting the ownership cap while navigating First Amendment concerns related to recent FCC actions [11].