In a recent discussion, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr addressed the implications of the Trump administration’s criticism of ABC’s The View, focusing on the show’s ratings and media trust.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr Discusses Consequences for ABC’s The View
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr recently commented on ABC’s The View after the Trump administration criticized co-host Joy Behar for her sharp remarks about the president.
Media Dynamics and Consequences
During an appearance on Fox News, Carr was questioned by anchor Bill Hemmer about whether The View has become a target for the current administration. Carr responded, “It’s entirely possible that there are issues over there. Once President Trump exposed these media gatekeepers, there are numerous consequences that are yet to unfold.”
Impact on Ratings
At a press conference following this month’s FCC meeting, Carr elaborated on the “consequences” for the show, noting, “You can see significant lower ratings. Reports indicate that Colbert is losing $40 to $50 million annually. President Trump has unveiled the reality of these institutions, leading to a decline in public trust, which ultimately undermines their business viability.”
Joy Behar’s Criticism of Trump
On a recent episode of The View, Behar criticized Trump’s assertion that former President Barack Obama committed treason, accusing his administration of manipulating intelligence to justify the Russian interference investigation in 2016. Obama’s spokesperson labeled these claims as “bizarre” and a “weak distraction.”
White House Response
The White House retaliated, stating, “Joy Behar is an irrelevant loser suffering from Trump Derangement Syndrome. It’s no surprise that The View’s ratings hit an all-time low last year. She should reflect on her jealousy of President Trump’s popularity before her show is canceled.”
Continued Criticism
Behar continued her critiques of Trump in subsequent broadcasts.
FCC Investigations
Since becoming FCC chair, Carr has initiated inquiries into how 60 Minutes edited an interview with Kamala Harris and has revived complaints regarding Harris’ appearance on Saturday Night Live. He has also launched investigations into Disney and Comcast regarding their diversity and inclusion policies.
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First Amendment Protections
Despite the FCC’s limited authority over news content due to First Amendment protections, Carr noted that the Fairness Doctrine, which mandated broadcasters to present differing viewpoints, was abolished in 1987. The FCC does have a news distortion rule, allowing enforcement only if a broadcaster deliberately distorts factual news.
Shifting Viewing Habits
The View is classified as a panel show rather than a newscast, although it is part of ABC News. Linear television has experienced a decline in ratings as audiences increasingly shift to streaming platforms.
Trump’s Relationship with Media
During his presidency, Trump has attempted to undermine media outlets that report unfavorably about him. Recently, he filed a lawsuit against Rupert Murdoch and The Wall Street Journal regarding their coverage of his connections to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Democratic Perspective
Anna Gomez, the only Democrat on the FCC, remarked that it is ironic for Carr and other Republicans to discuss the erosion of trust in journalism when the administration has spent years fostering distrust in mainstream media.
