The Federal Communications Commission has asked a court to dismiss Disney's lawsuit, aiming to continue its review of ABC's broadcast licenses. Meanwhile, watchdogs fear Disney might settle with the FCC, potentially compromising public interest.

Disney sued the FCC, alleging a “campaign of censorship” to punish ABC for content disfavored by President Trump. The FCC claims the review is about diversity, not politics, but is facing pushback from concerned parties.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has previously threatened ABC over jokes and political content, setting the stage for a contentious legal battle. The FCC’s motion aims to completely dismiss Disney’s lawsuit or at least deny a temporary injunction that would halt the license review.

Meanwhile, Trump ratcheted up the media war, demanding the FCC punish an NBC journalist for a candid comment about his election endorsements. The FCC’s move to dismiss the Disney lawsuit suggests a focus on DEI policies, but the underlying political tension looms large.