Senate Republican rebukes Carr’s threats to revoke broadcast licenses over Iran coverage

The Hill
by Elvia Limon
March 15, 2026
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3 min read

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Republican Senator Johnson criticized FCC Chairman's threats against broadcast networks.

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Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) criticized FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's threats to revoke broadcast licenses over TV networks' Iran coverage, defending First Amendment protections. Johnson made the remarks Sunday on Fox News Sunday, saying he opposes "heavy-handed government, no matter who is wielding it." The rebuke represents rare Republican pushback against the Trump administration's media policy, with Johnson prioritizing free speech principles over partisan support. The criticism comes as Carr has taken an increasingly aggressive stance toward broadcast regulation since Trump's return to office. Johnson's public opposition could signal broader GOP resistance to using federal licensing powers against news organizations.

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Johnson publicly opposed using federal licensing powers against news organizations.

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