Liberal advocacy groups, conservative media, and Dish network voiced their opposition to the FFC Tuesday, railing against Sinclair Broadcast Group’s proposed $3.9 billion acquisition of Tribune Media. One organization even made the case directly to the company’s employees.
The merger’s opponents argue it will raise prices for American viewers while narrowing options for content and news, Reuters reports. Some are also concerned the acquisition, which extends Sinclair Broadcast Group’s reach to 72 percent of American households, would give the company too much influence over local news broadcasts.
According to Reuters, conservative media company Newsmax Group said the merger would “cripple” a diverse and free press in a petition to the FCC. Sinclair has been criticized for requiring its stations to air its “must run” segments that skew right of center.
Similar arguments were made in a letter sent to Sinclair employees by Allied Progress, a liberal organization campaigning against the merger. According to Variety, the progressive group also sent letters to Tribune employees with a warning that they “know the truth about [their] potential new boss.”
Advocacy and trade groups that file petitions against the merger include the American Cable Association, Competitive Carriers Association, Common Cause, Computer and Communications Industry Association, which represents Amazon and Alphabet. Reuters reports T-Mobile and Dish Network are also opposed.
This article was featured in the InsideHook newsletter. Sign up now.
