Nexstar Media Group has taken unprecedented steps to leverage its broadcasting stations in a bid to satisfy government demands concerning its impending merger with Tegna. To achieve this, Nexstar used its influence over network content, reportedly pressuring ABC's parent company to suspend the popular "Jimmy Kimmel Live" show. This coercion raises a fundamental issue about media freedom, with a conglomerate wielding too much power over what viewers consume.

Historically, no broadcasting station with government-issued licenses has held such an overwhelming influence over network programming. Although it might appear as a single act, the implications are far-reaching and deeply concerning. If the Nexstar-Tegna merger goes through, Nexstar will exceed the legal limits of audience reach by acquiring affiliate stations across the country. This will not only disrupt fair competition in the media industry but could lead to a monopolistic control over television content, depriving viewers of diverse perspectives and program choices.

The national television ownership cap is a federal limit established by Congress in 2004 that prevents a single broadcast company from owning stations that reach more than 39% of U.S. households. If the Nexstar-TEGNA merger were approved, the new entity would become the nation's largest broadcast television group, controlling 265 stations with a combined reach of approximately 60% of the country, far exceeding the legal limit. 

It's crucial that both the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the U.S. Department of Justice take a firm stance against this merger. The legal cap on market reach exists to prevent exactly this kind of monopolistic behavior which can undermine democratic discourse and stifle press freedom.

A free and fair press is a cornerstone of democracy. It ensures that a range of voices are heard and that no single entity has a disproportionate influence over the public agenda. Allowing this merger to proceed not only risks increasing corporate control over media but also sets a dangerous precedent for future mergers.

We urge regulators to thoroughly investigate the implications of this merger and act decisively to prevent the consolidation of media power under Nexstar. The stakes are too high to ignore – the American public deserves a diverse, competitive media landscape that supports democratic engagement and media freedom.

This is a nonpartisan issue. Conservative networks One America News (OAN) and Newsmax, as well as the National Hispanic Media Coalition, oppose this merger.

Sign this petition to stand against the Nexstar-Tegna merger and protect the freedom, diversity, and integrity of our media landscape.