- United States
- Calif.
- Letter
I am writing to you as a concerned constituent regarding recent statements by FCC Chair Brendan Carr, suggesting that the agency may take punitive action against broadcasters in response to political speech made by comedian Jimmy Kimmel.
Regardless of one’s views about Mr. Kimmel or his remarks, the FCC’s role is not to act as a political censor. The First Amendment guarantees freedom of speech and press, and any attempt by government officials to threaten or coerce media outlets over protected speech undermines these core constitutional values.
I urge you to:
Publicly affirm that the FCC must remain independent and nonpartisan in regulating broadcasters.
Ensure Congress exercises strong oversight so that regulatory power is not weaponized to silence or intimidate political critics.
Consider legislative safeguards that reinforce the limits of FCC authority over content, protecting free expression for all Americans.
This issue is not about one comedian or one network — it is about whether our government respects the constitutional boundaries that protect free speech. I ask you to stand firmly against this dangerous precedent.
Thank you for your service and attention to this important matter.