A coalition of states is preparing to file a lawsuit against Nexstar's $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, a major broadcast television deal that would combine two of the largest local TV station owners in the United States. The legal challenge comes as the Federal Communications Commission reviews the proposed merger, which has raised concerns about media consolidation and its impact on local news coverage.

Nexstar Media Group, already the nation's largest local television operator, would significantly expand its reach through the acquisition of Tegna's 64 stations across 51 markets. The deal would create a broadcast behemoth with over 200 stations reaching 40% of U.S. households. State attorneys general argue the merger would reduce competition, limit viewpoints, and potentially harm consumers through higher advertising rates.

The states' planned legal action follows a pattern of increased scrutiny over media consolidation deals. Similar challenges have been mounted against other major media mergers, with regulators and state officials increasingly concerned about the concentration of media ownership. The outcome of this challenge could set important precedents for future broadcast mergers and acquisitions in the evolving media landscape.