A Republican US Senator Ted Cruz overseeing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), joined Democrats in condemning FCC Chair Brendan Carr’s recent threats against Disney and local broadcasters for airing “Jimmy Kimmel Live”.
Cruz characterized Carr’s threats to fine broadcasters or revoke their licenses over show content as dangerous.
“This is right out of ‘Goodfellas’ ”, Cruz remarked, likening Carr’s actions to a Mafioso intimidation tactic. His comments represent a rare dissent from a prominent member of President Donald Trump’s party, amid growing concerns over free speech rights and the administration’s potential crackdown on dissent.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump defended Carr, calling him “an incredible American patriot with courage” and expressed disagreement with Cruz’s stance. Trump reiterated his belief that broadcasters critical of his administration should face consequences, stating “that’s no longer free speech… that’s just cheating”.
The controversy escalated following ABC’s suspension of Kimmel’s late-night show after Carr threatened regulatory action against broadcasters airing his content. This move was prompted by Kimmel’s comments regarding the murder of right wing activist Charlie Kirk, which angered conservative factions.
On podcast, Cruz labeled Carr’s comments “dangerous as hell”, quoting Carr’s warning to broadcasters in a mock Mafioso accent. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called for Carr’s resignation, labelling him “one of the single greatest threats to free speech America has ever known”.
Some House Democrats have also requested an investigation into Carr’s actions.
Despite the criticism, Carr has stated he is “not going anywhere” and intends to continue his efforts to address media firms and defend the public interest.
During a recent visit to Britain, Donald Trump expressed approval of Kimmel’s suspension, describing the comedian as untalented and criticising his remarks about Kirk. Kimmel’s future on air remains uncertain and has not publically respond to his suspension.
Cruz who has often been a target of Kimmel’s humour, expressed mixed feelings about the suspension, stating that while he disapproves of Kimmel’s comments, he believes government pressure to silence any broadcaster in unacceptable. “We shouldn’t be threatening government power to force him off air”, Cruz warned, cautioning against the implications for conservative voices in America.
