Disney has sued the FCC, accusing the Trump administration of launching a retaliatory campaign against its ABC networks for the content of its broadcasts. The lawsuit follows the FCC’s April order to review all Disney‑owned stations for alleged unlawful discrimination and violations of equal‑airtime rules for shows like The View.

In the Washington District Court complaint, Disney claims the FCC, under Trump’s direction, has targeted ABC solely because it disapproves of the network’s programming. It seeks a declaration that early licence‑renewal applications constitute a retaliatory action infringing the First Amendment.

The case marks a new escalation after Disney settled a 2024 defamation suit brought by Trump and paid $15 mn to resolve a dispute over the network’s coverage. Earlier this year, CBS settled a Trump‑initiated lawsuit over a 60 Minutes interview, and the BBC faces a £10 bn defamation claim.

Disney’s challenge underscores a broader trend of media outlets clashing with a president who frequently attacks outlets it sees as critical, raising questions about press freedom and regulatory overreach in the United States.