US News

ABC urges federal judge to block expedited FCC broadcast license review

The network claims regulatory retaliation, while the government cites an inquiry into diversity practices.

Updated Oct 7, 2026 · 00:31 UTC3 reports

The short version

Disney's ABC asked a federal judge to halt an early review of its broadcast licenses by the Federal Communications Commission.[CBS News]
The Justice Department contended the expedited review stemmed from Disney's inadequate response to an investigation into diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.[CBS News]
U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan previously directed the FCC to pause proceedings pending a Tuesday hearing.[NPR]

An attorney representing Disney's ABC requested that a federal judge halt an early review of the network's broadcast licenses initiated by the FCC.[CBS News]
The Justice Department argued the April decision to accelerate the license review was prompted by Disney failing to adequately respond to an inquiry regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion practices.[CBS News]
U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan instructed the FCC to hold off on advancing the review until a Tuesday hearing.[NPR]
Mark Fowler, a former Republican FCC chair under Ronald Reagan, submitted a statement supporting ABC's legal challenge, describing Carr's actions as censorship and unconstitutional.[NPR]

The court has yet to rule on whether to grant ABC's requested order blocking the FCC's accelerated review.[NPR · CBS News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.