US President Donald Trump has claimed it is “illegal” for television networks to consistently air negative stories about him, suggesting that such coverage could justify revoking their broadcast licenses.
LensNews confirmed that Trump made the remarks while addressing reporters in the Oval Office, insisting that networks benefiting from government-licensed airwaves should not be allowed to operate as platforms for what he called “one-sided attacks.” He pointed to figures alleging that 97 percent of media coverage about him is negative, arguing that this “goes beyond free speech.”
His comments come days after ABC suspended the Jimmy Kimmel Live! show following controversial remarks made by the host about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s death. Trump defended the network’s action and echoed support for FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, who has publicly pressed for tighter scrutiny of broadcast licenses.
The president’s remarks have drawn sharp criticism from lawmakers and free-speech advocates. Senator Ted Cruz and media watchdog groups described Trump’s position as a direct threat to the First Amendment, warning that allowing the government to police negative coverage would amount to censorship.
The debate adds fresh tension to the already strained relationship between the Trump administration and the American media, with concerns mounting over the balance between press freedom and political power.
