‘These threats are meant to chill speech’: FCC Commissioner speaks out about Kimmel’s removal

FCC's Role and Authority - The FCC licenses broadcasters to serve communities in the public interest [4] - The FCC lacks the authority, ability, or constitutional right to censor broadcasters [4] - Censoring broadcasters violates the First Amendment and the Communications Act [5] - Defining "public interest" is crucial, with considerations for localism, diversity of viewpoints, and competition [6] - The FCC's role is to license broadcasters in the public interest and then step back, avoiding infringement on the First Amendment [14] License Revocation and Free Speech - Revoking a license is extremely rare due to its harsh consequences [8] - Threats to revoke licenses can chill speech [8] - Satire has a rich history and plays an important role in pushing back against those in power [14] - The FCC should not judge what is funny or determine content [14] Administration's Actions and Concerns - The administration is accused of using "public interest" to justify censorship [2][4][5] - The administration is allegedly retaliating against those who speak out against it [10] - There are concerns about corporate capitulation to the administration's pressure [9][10]