Morning Wire Podcast Summary: Federal Communication Course Correction | 02.16.25
Episode Release Date: February 16, 2025
Hosts: John Bickley & Georgia Howe
Guest: Brendan Carr, FCC Chairman
Duration Covered: 15:45 minutes
Introduction
In the February 16th, 2025 episode of Morning Wire, hosts John Bickley and Georgia Howe engage in a comprehensive discussion with Brendan Carr, the newly appointed Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The conversation delves into Carr's ambitious plans to steer the FCC towards implementing President Trump's communication priorities, addressing media trust issues, and tackling systemic biases within the broadcasting landscape.
FCC's Actions on News Distortion
John Bickley initiates the discussion by referencing a recent controversy involving CBS's "60 Minutes" interview with Vice President Kamala Harris. He asks Carr about the FCC's review of the edited interview tapes.
Brendan Carr responds by outlining the FCC's ongoing investigation into the matter:
“The FCC's review is ongoing... There was extrinsic evidence here where CBS played one version of a response... which allowed the FCC to need to obtain the underlying transcript or video... People feel passionately about this... we're just taking input at this point. We haven't reached a final decision on the merits, but we will eventually when the record is complete.” [01:20]
Carr emphasizes that the FCC aims to ensure transparency and restore public trust by allowing Americans to express their viewpoints on such media practices.
Public Response and Media Trust
When probed about public reactions, Carr highlights the diverse opinions and the prevailing lack of trust in legacy media:
"Trust in media right now is at an absolute all time low... Jeff Bezos had that op-ed out there where he said that the news industry has fallen... being less trusted than even Congress itself.” [02:51]
He underscores the FCC's commitment to reinvigorating media accountability by enforcing public interest obligations, a responsibility previously neglected.
Trump's Legal Actions Against Media
Bickley brings up President Trump's lawsuits against major media entities like ABC and Meta, framing them as attempts to bully and influence media coverage.
Carr counters by asserting that the FCC is applying the law impartially:
"We're seeing an even handed application of the law... everyone gets a fair shake at the FCC now, and we're just going to call balls and strikes.” [04:28]
He argues that equitable treatment across all regulated entities dispels claims of bias or discrimination, emphasizing that fairness is paramount in FCC operations.
Investigation into DEI Practices at Comcast and NBC
The conversation shifts to DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) practices, with Carr detailing the FCC's investigation into Comcast and NBC:
“President Trump... ended DEI with respect to the federal government... My expectation is that every single entity that the FCC regulates... if they have any, they're going to end any of these illegal, discriminatory DEI policies.” [06:20]
Carr explains that DEI initiatives are viewed as contravening civil rights laws, and the FCC seeks to ensure merit-based fairness within regulated corporations.
Investigation into NPR and PBS Commercials
Addressing concerns over public funding and commercialization, Carr discusses the FCC's probe into NPR and PBS's commercial activities:
“If they're able to go out there and raise commercial funds to support their programming, then why are we taking taxpayer dollars to support what is effectively a commercial operation?” [08:46]
He highlights potential violations where non-commercial stations might be broadcasting content akin to commercials, thereby misusing their FCC licenses.
FCC's Enhanced Role in Media Monitoring
Carr outlines the FCC's broader agenda under his leadership, positioning the agency as more active and vigilant in media regulation:
“One is restoring free speech... breaking up this censorship cartel... modernizing the FCC's approach to media regulation... economic agenda... national security and public safety.” [11:19]
He emphasizes a four-pronged strategy aiming to restore public trust, modernize regulatory frameworks, stimulate economic growth, and ensure national security.
Addressing the Censorship Cartel
The final segment tackles the concept of a "censorship cartel," involving big tech companies and government collaboration in media censorship:
“News Guard is a piece of it... the advertising and marketing piece of it is taking conservative websites, conservative channels and not allowing advertisers to advertise there.” [13:17]
Carr criticizes practices like jawboning and the use of fact-checkers (e.g., News Guard) as tools exacerbating media bias. He announces plans to dismantle these collusions alongside other regulatory bodies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Carr reaffirms the FCC's dedication to neutral and equitable regulation. He assures listeners that the FCC under his leadership will actively combat media bias, enhance transparency, and uphold free speech, marking a significant shift towards rebuilding trust in the American media landscape.
“We've taken some early action on media... with four years and we're going to deliver really good results across all of those different metrics.” [12:57]
John Bickley and Georgia Howe conclude the episode by expressing optimism over the FCC's renewed direction under Carr's leadership.
This episode of Morning Wire provides an in-depth look into the FCC's strategic overhaul aimed at restoring media integrity and ensuring fair communication practices. For listeners seeking clarity on the evolving dynamics between government agencies and media conglomerates, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of American broadcasting regulation.