ABC has told the Federal Communications Commission that its unusually early review of the licences for eight ABC-owned television stations is retaliatory and risks chilling press freedom. The network argues that the move is linked to criticism from President Trump over ABC’s news coverage, while the FCC says the review concerns an investigation into the network’s diversity, equity and inclusion practices.

ABC says its stations meet the public-interest standard required for renewal and has received backing from community, press-freedom, former FCC and some conservative groups. More than 153,000 public comments were submitted; ABC says an AI analysis found almost 86% favoured renewal, although conservative organisations urged the FCC to revoke the licences. The first licences were not otherwise due to expire until 2028, and the FCC has not said when it will decide.