A federal judge has prohibited Nexstar Media Group executives, including CEO Perry Sook, from serving on Tegna's board, determining that their appointments breach a court order meant to keep the two broadcasting companies independent. The judge criticised Nexstar for failing to disclose these board placements and subsequently claiming the court had approved actions that actually violated the injunction.

The ruling stems from an antitrust challenge filed in March by state attorneys general and DirecTV against the Nexstar-Tegna merger, which the FCC approved and Nexstar closed shortly thereafter. A preliminary injunction in April initially required the companies to operate separately; Thursday's order reinforces this whilst directing enhanced compliance monitoring, including monthly document submission to plaintiffs and potential appointment of a special master. Nexstar argues it needs executives on the board for regulatory and debt compliance, and the company is appealing the injunction with trial scheduled for next year.