UPDATE: President Donald Trump has voiced strong opposition to the proposed merger between Nexstar Media Group and TEGNA, Inc., a deal that could dramatically reshape the landscape of local news across the United States. Concerns are mounting as this merger would create a single entity controlling 265 TV stations that reach over 80 percent of American households, more than double the maximum limit set by Congress two decades ago.
Local news has been the backbone of American journalism, but recent trends show a disturbing shift toward homogenized content. As local stations are absorbed into larger groups, reports indicate that news coverage has become increasingly uniform, with some stations duplicating scripts word-for-word. This alarming trend threatens the diversity and reliability of local reporting, critical for informed communities.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), under the leadership of Brendan Carr, is being urged to approve the merger without fully considering its impact on local news. Critics argue that this would not only undermine local ownership but could also lead to a “dumbing down” of news coverage that shapes political narratives across the nation.
Recent statements from Newsmax CEO Chris Ruddy emphasize that the proposed merger violates national audience reach caps designed to protect local media interests. The Reagan-era regulations were established to ensure that local news remains less influenced by major media markets like New York and Los Angeles, which often do not reflect the views of everyday Americans.
Legal experts are questioning whether the FCC has the authority to approve this merger, particularly in light of the Supreme Court’s recent decisions. The implications of this merger extend beyond news quality; retransmission fees that consumers pay to cable and satellite companies have surged by more than 2,000 percent over the last 15 years. Experts warn that the merger would exacerbate this financial burden on consumers, as larger station groups leverage their size to negotiate higher fees.
As the deadline for FCC consideration looms, Trump’s opposition presents a pivotal moment for local media advocates. “We need to reflect on the importance of local news,” Trump stated during a public appearance on August 22, 2025. His remarks serve as a rallying cry for those who believe that local journalism is essential for democracy and community engagement.
The future of local news hangs in the balance as stakeholders await the FCC’s decision on the Nexstar-TEGNA merger. Advocates are urging regulators to prioritize the preservation of local journalism over corporate consolidation. This developing story highlights the urgent need for public discourse on the state of media in America and the protection of local news outlets that serve as a critical source of information for communities nationwide.
Stay tuned as this situation evolves, and continue to advocate for local news that reflects the stories that matter most to you.
