Commissioner Anna M. Gomez expressed deep worries to broadcasters about what she perceives as an unsettling trend, namely the Trump administration’s attempts to exert politically driven control over news media organizations.
On Monday, Gomez delivered an urgent message during a question-and-answer discussion that took place at the National Association of Broadcasters convention in Las Vegas.
Gomez’s concern over the current situation is so intense, I simply can’t stay silent. I feel compelled to speak up, and I fervently hope that I’m not the only one doing so. In a recent discussion with Joe Flint from the Wall Street Journal, as well as a Q&A session with conference attendees, this was my sentiment.
Discussion focused on DEI policy regulations for private corporations, sparked by the FCC’s recent decision to launch investigations into entities like Disney and ABC. She expressed her viewpoint, stating, “If we’re going to start enforcing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion guidelines, I want to understand which laws grant us that power.” Labeling this as a form of intimidation, she further commented, “When companies comply with such demands, that’s the desired outcome.
The individual perceived investigations targeting broadcasters like NPR and PBS as a “fishing trip aimed at discovering grounds to persuade Congress to cut funding for public broadcasting.” They don’t believe there was any genuine evidence of misconduct whatsoever, instead suspecting that the motive might be silencing voices.
Additionally, the FCC is embroiled in a contentious dispute with CBS News, over an investigation into allegations of politically biased “news distortion” against CBS’ New York main station regarding the October interview with presidential candidate Kamala Harris on “60 Minutes”.
In the meeting, Gomez emphasized to attendees that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is a self-governing body established by Congress. She stated, “We need to be perceived as an agency knowledgeable in technology and motivated by decisions for the public good rather than political agendas.” This is crucial, especially in media regulation, she added, because the FCC was initially designed as an independent entity to avoid the kind of influence you see today from the White House on media outlets, including broadcasters, public media, and internet platforms – all aimed at controlling speech.
As a passionate cinephile, I’d rephrase it as:
“I’ve noticed more than just broadcasters facing actions for editorial decisions disfavored by this administration. Across its tenure, this administration has been assertive, even threatening tech companies over their moderation policies to create a desired consumer experience and swiftly debunk misinformation. This isn’t merely a pattern of censorship and control; it’s a clear attempt to shape information flow. If we don’t act, such actions will undoubtedly harm our nation.
As a movie critic stepping into the world of telecommunications, I found myself reflecting on the recent events at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The current Chairman, Brendan Carr, was appointed by President Trump and took office in January. However, it’s the other commissioner, Jessica Rosenworcel Gomez, who has caught my attention lately. With fellow Democrat Geoffrey Stark set to depart this spring, she will be the lone Democratic voice on the commission.
Despite federal employee travel restrictions, Gomez was the only commissioner present at a recent convention, a move that was attributed to the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). When asked about her attendance, she shared that she personally funded the trip as she felt it was crucial for her to engage with broadcasters and share her thoughts. This decision earned her applause from the audience.
Regarding the current dynamics at the FCC, Gomez stated, “Chairman Carr is genuinely committed to working harmoniously with other commissioners and the commission. While I’ve expressed strong opinions about the FCC’s actions, on a personal level, we actually collaborate effectively. I hope the commission could shift away from the ongoing cultural disputes and instead focus on our primary mission, which can be achieved in a bipartisan manner.” She further emphasized this desire for a refocused approach to the commission’s work.
As a passionate cinephile, I’m expressing my apprehensions about the future. The idea of such control and censorship is downright chilling, and I fear where we might find ourselves in just two years if we don’t put a stop to it now. So, to those who have the power, I implore you: keep speaking out, stand firm, and resist this tide.
She went on to say, “It seems likely that a kind of deterrent effect is at work here, where those who voice their opinions may face retaliation.” She added, “Sticking one’s neck out isn’t always easy. I can only hope that if they do encounter such treatment, they will consider the potential impact on our democratic system.
Gomez, a Democrat, was appointed to the FCC in 2023.
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2025-04-09 05:47