The US Federal Communications Commission is facing bipartisan criticism over its scrutiny of ABC’s broadcast licence renewals, which opponents say is an attempt to punish the network for speech disliked by President Trump. Liberal advocacy groups, conservative and free-market organisations, and former FCC officials from both parties argue that the action risks censoring broadcasters and creating a chilling effect on editorial freedom.

The FCC ordered ABC to submit early renewal applications for eight stations, after conservative groups filed petitions challenging the licences; replies to opposition filings are due by 5 August. Although the FCC cites possible breaches of anti-discrimination rules related to diversity, equity and inclusion practices, critics link the review to Trump’s objections to comments by Jimmy Kimmel, including a joke about Melania Trump. Conservative opponents warn that making licence renewals politically contentious could later be used against conservative, religious or other disfavoured broadcasters.