1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

I am writing to express my grave concern over a serious threat to the freedom of the press in the United States. FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, appointed during the Trump administration, has stated that he is considering revoking the broadcast license of CBS. This threat is not idle speculation. It is a clear and deliberate signal that federal regulatory powers are being considered as tools to punish a news organization for its editorial stance. This action would constitute a direct violation of the First Amendment. Former President Donald Trump has repeatedly expressed hostility toward the press, labeling it “the enemy of the people,” and calling for the revocation of broadcast licenses. His rhetoric has been dangerous, but this latest move shows a shift from words to actions that could fundamentally undermine the constitutional protections of a free and independent media. Revoking a broadcaster’s license because of its content or criticism of government officials is unconstitutional and authoritarian. The press exists to hold power accountable. When officials threaten to silence journalists through legal or regulatory measures, they attack the core of our democracy. This is not just about CBS. It is about whether any president or political ally can use government institutions to suppress critical journalism. If allowed to proceed, this sets a terrifying precedent. It signals that federal agencies can be manipulated to punish dissent and control public discourse. I strongly urge Congress to take immediate action. Specifically, I ask that you: 1. Publicly and unequivocally condemn the threat to revoke CBS’s license as a violation of the First Amendment. 2. Hold formal hearings to investigate Commissioner Carr’s statements and intentions. 3. Pursue every available legal and procedural option to remove him from his position if he is found to be abusing his authority or threatening constitutional protections. Silence in the face of this threat would be a failure of your duty to uphold the Constitution. Please act swiftly and decisively to protect the free press and defend our democracy.