FCC chairman says the agency is investigating ABC’s ‘The View’ over equal time rule - AP News
AP News
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chairman has announced an investigation into ABC’s popular talk show *The View* over potential violations of the equal time rule. The probe comes after concerns raised about the program’s handling of political discussions and guest appearances. This rule mandates that broadcasters provide fair and equal coverage to all political candidates and ideologies, ensuring a balanced perspective in media. While no formal accusations have been made, the FCC’s interest signals scrutiny over whether *The View* complies with regulations designed to prevent bias in broadcasting.
The equal time rule, established decades ago, applies to candidates for public office but has evolved to address broader media practices. Critics argue that *The View*, known for its progressive-leaning commentary and frequent discussions on contentious topics, may have favored certain political perspectives, potentially violating FCC guidelines. The chairman’s announcement reflects a broader effort by the agency to monitor media fairness, particularly in politically charged programming.
While ABC has yet to respond officially, the network has historically maintained that *The View* adheres to journalistic standards. Critics of the investigation argue that it could set a precedent for increased government oversight of media content, raising concerns about free speech and press freedom. Supporters, however, view this as an important step toward ensuring balanced reporting in television.
This development matters because it highlights ongoing debates over media regulation and accountability. As political polarization intensifies, scrutiny of media practices becomes increasingly relevant to public trust in journalism. Whether the FCC’s investigation leads to changes in how *The View
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Originally published on AP News on 2/19/2026