Source: Fortune
Summary
President Donald Trump called on the Federal Communications Commission to investigate polling used by news outlets and penalize NBC’s Kristen Welker. Trump accused the media of using “fake polls” and criticized Welker for reporting on his mixed primary election endorsements. The FCC has no authority over polling methods or cable news. A spokesperson for NBC defended Welker, calling her one of the best in the business. Trump urged FCC Chairman Brendan Carr to take his complaints seriously.
Our Reading
The numbers tell one story.
Trump targets media with FCC complaints.
Polls and reporting are under fire.
FCC has no power over the content.
Welker remains unscathed.
The original observation: The press is still free, but the president is not.
Author: Evan Null
Trump’s Media War Intensifies
President Donald Trump has escalated his attacks on the media, urging the Federal Communications Commission to investigate polling used by news outlets. He accused the press of spreading “fake polls” and called for action against NBC’s Kristen Welker, who reported on his mixed primary election endorsements. Trump has long criticized journalists who publish stories he dislikes, especially those about his poll numbers.
Adversarial Relationship With Press
Trump has maintained an adversarial relationship with journalists and news organizations, particularly those covering his declining approval ratings. Recent polls show his lowest approval rating of either term, amid ongoing issues like the Iran war and high gas prices. He has increasingly used his animosity toward the press to push for action by the FCC, which controls broadcast licensing.
FCC Has No Control Over Polling or Cable News
The FCC has no authority over polling methods or cable stations. Polls are often sponsored by television networks or news organizations but conducted by universities or polling companies. Despite Trump’s calls for action, the FCC has no legal power to punish news outlets or journalists for their reporting. Short of canceling a broadcast license, there is little the administration can do to retaliate.
Welker Defended by NBC
NBC defended Kristen Welker, calling her one of the best in the business. Trump criticized her for reporting on his primary election endorsements, which had mixed results. He also attacked New York Times reporter Maggie Haberman for reporting on his absence from the Sept. 11 commemoration. The FCC has no control over print media or cable stations, limiting Trump’s ability to retaliate.
Trump Pushes FCC to Act
Trump urged FCC Chairman Brendan Carr to take his complaints seriously, calling the media a threat to the country. He has long used the FCC as a tool to pressure journalists and news organizations. Despite his calls, the FCC has no legal power to punish the media for its reporting. The administration’s attempts to challenge the press remain largely symbolic.
