Trump FCC lets Nexstar buy Tegna and blow way past 39% TV ownership cap

The Trump-appointed FCC let Nexstar buy Tegna, shattering the 39% TV ownership cap that has limited media consolidation for decades. This merger creates a behemoth reaching 63% of U.S. households, far exceeding the cap's intent. Critics warn it will kill local news faster than the industry's already steep decline—local TV news staff fell 26% between 2008 and 2023. This single deal outstrips #10's impact on media diversity by allowing unfettered corporate control.