President-elect Donald Trump has voiced strong support for Nexstar Media Group’s proposed acquisition of Tegna Inc., highlighting its potential to foster greater competition in the U.S. broadcasting industry.
Trump’s Statements on Truth Social
Trump posted on Truth Social that deals like this one, which succeed without relying on what he calls ‘fake news,’ represent the direction the industry should take. He stated, ‘Pursuing successes like this without fake news is something that helps eliminate it.’ Trump emphasized the need for more competition, describing national TV networks as ‘enemies’ and ‘hotbeds of fake news.’
He added, ‘Opponents fail to fully grasp how beneficial this is, but in America, they will come to understand. Make this merger a success.’
Details of the Proposed Deal
Nexstar Media Group, a leading U.S. local broadcaster, plans to acquire Tegna—the nation’s largest owner of local TV stations—for $6.2 billion, as announced last August.
Approval of the merger would allow Nexstar to operate 265 broadcast stations across 132 markets nationwide.
Broadcast Reach and Regulatory Challenges
Nexstar’s current stations already reach about 80% of U.S. TV households. The combined company would exceed the Federal Communications Commission’s ownership limit of 39%. However, Nexstar maintains that the deal merits regulatory waivers, citing its emphasis on local programming and overall industry benefits.
Prior Criticism from Trump
Trump has critiqued Nexstar in the past. Last November, he wrote on Truth Social, ‘If we allow corporate networks to expand massively, I won’t stand for it,’ adding that ‘fake news Nexstar should face restrictions instead.’
