Trump Suggests Revoking Licenses for TV Networks Following Kimmel Suspension

Tue Sep 30 2025 07:57:46 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a recent statement, President Trump expressed support for potentially revoking broadcasting licenses from networks he perceives as negative towards him, following ABC's suspension of Jimmy Kimmel after controversial remarks about a recent shooting incident involving conservative activist Charlie Kirk.

President Trump has suggested that some TV networks should face consequences, including the potential loss of their broadcasting licenses, for what he considers negative coverage of his presidency. This comment comes in the wake of ABC's decision to suspend comedian Jimmy Kimmel after he made remarks linking a recent shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk to a right-wing ideology. The FCC chairman has indicated that broadcasters will be held accountable to the public.

US President Donald Trump has suggested some TV networks should have their licenses taken away, as he backed America's broadcast regulator in a row over the suspension of ABC host Jimmy Kimmel.

The Disney-owned network announced on Wednesday evening it was pulling the comedian off air indefinitely amid a backlash over his remarks about the murder of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk last week.

On Monday, Kimmel suggested the suspect was a Maga Republican, although authorities in Utah had said the alleged gunman was indoctrinated with leftist ideology.

ABC took Jimmy Kimmel Live! off air after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) threatened action over his remarks.

Trump spoke about the issue to reporters on Thursday aboard Air Force One while returning from a state visit to the UK.

I have read someplace that the networks were 97% against me, again, 97% negative, and yet I won and easily, all seven swing states [in last year's election], the president said.

They give me only bad publicity, press. I mean, they're getting a licence. I would think maybe their license should be taken away.

Following Kimmel's comments, FCC chairman Brendan Carr stated the commission would continue to hold broadcasters accountable.

Writers and actors have condemned Kimmel's suspension, viewing it as an attack on free speech, while others argue accountability for controversial statements is necessary. The incident is igniting a wider debate on media influence and responsibility.