July 16, 2018

Cárdenas: Latest Sinclair roadblock a major victory for consumers

Chairman Pai’s decision to put the brakes on this merger is a victory for local news and all Americans. Strong competition and different points of view on our local news are crucial. The Sinclair-Tribune merger would give Sinclair the power to reach 3 out of 4 Americans’ homes, more than what current law allows. It would also give them the ability to squash all competition and turn Americans’ local news into one-size-fits-all national reports.

I have questioned this merger from the beginning and called for the Federal Communications Commission and the Department of Justice to block it. My colleagues and I have sent letters to the FCC, the DOJ and Sinclair, and held informative briefings to raise awareness here in Congress and with the public. I am encouraged by Chairman Pai’s latest statement because this merger would be bad for our democracy and Americans’ trust in their local news.

We must continue to pay attention until the merger is completely rejected. I applaud all the Americans and organizations who spoke up, as well as Commissioner Rosenworcel, who has been a dedicated voice of reason on this issue.

 

###