In the wake of FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s statement today announcing he would not approve the merger of Sinclair and Tribune broadcasting companies, Newsmax Media CEO Christopher Ruddy issued the following statement:
I applaud Chairman Pai’s decision today to designate the Sinclair-Tribune transaction for further review and hearings.
Clearly this decision is based on the facts and law -- specifically that Sinclair has not complied with requirements set forth by the FCC to promote diversity, localism and competition.
After a lengthy and fair process, Chairman Pai acted in a non-partisan manner in making this decision – a marked departure from the Commission’s partisan actions during the Obama administration.
Republicans, Democrats and those that are concerned about the concentration of media power should join me in commending Chairman Pai for his independence and integrity.