A few days ago, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr reminded broadcasters that companies that use the public airwaves have an obligation under federal law to operate in the public interest.
The reaction from Democrats and much of the press has been furious. Critics like Sen. Ruben Gallego (D., Ariz.) are claiming Carr was threatening free speech or trying to intimidate the media. The illustration above, by Javier Muñoz for the Hollywood Reporter, is a good example for how the media has treated Carr.
But looking at the law and the facts show that. Brendan Carr is right and the left is wrong. Here’s why.
First, the context matters. Much of the press’s coverage of the Trump administration response to Iran has been extraordinarily biased and, in some cases, plainly false. One of the most glaring examples came from reports claiming the administration “had not planned for the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz.” Anyone who has worked in national security roles in Congress or the administration knows that claim is preposterous. Policymakers have discussed and planned for that scenario for decades. Iran threatened it repeatedly during the tanker wars of the 1980s. Sen. Tom Cotton (R., Ark.), chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, called the claim the Trump administration wasn’t prepared for Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz a lie.
Second, Carr’s critics pretend he said something radical. However, the Communications Act in Section 309(a) has long required broadcasters that use public spectrum to operate in the “public interest.” That principle is the foundation of how broadcast licenses are issued. Carr was simply reminding broadcasters of responsibilities that have long existed. .
Third, Carr’s record at the Federal Communications Commission has been outstanding. He has been one of the administration’s most effective regulators, repealing unnecessary regulations, getting broadband to millions more households, and helping America win the 5G race against China.
Democrats want to act like they are champions of free speech. Let’s not forget, Democrats demanded the censorship of conservatives the last decade, not only on social media, but on broadcast TV as well. Spare us the fake outrage.
Brendan Carr is a champion of free speech. We are grateful for her service, and he should be commended for simply pointing out to broadcasters that it is in the public’s interest for the press to tell the truth.