Senator John Kennedy raises alarm over FCC’s swift approval of George Soros’ acquisition of over 200 radio stations, sparking concerns about media influence and political motivations.
Top Takeaways
- Senator John Kennedy questions FCC’s expedited approval of George Soros’ acquisition of 200+ radio stations
- FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr criticizes the lack of transparency in the approval process
- The deal involves a $400 million investment by Soros in Audacy after its bankruptcy filing
- Concerns raised about potential political motivations and Soros’ influence on American media
- New FCC Chairman Brendan Carr expected to investigate the deal further
Senator Kennedy Raises Red Flags
U.S. Senator John Kennedy has voiced serious concerns regarding the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) unusually rapid approval of George Soros’ acquisition of over 200 radio stations through Audacy. The deal, which involved a $400 million investment by Soros after Audacy filed for bankruptcy in February 2024, has raised eyebrows due to the speed and manner of its authorization.
Kennedy, known for his colorful language, remarked that the deal “went through the FCC like green grass through a goose,” highlighting the unusual swiftness of the approval process. This expedited procedure has led to speculation about potential irregularities and political considerations influencing the decision.
George Soros-backed group acquires over 200 Audacy radio stations with FCC's fast-track approval. #MediaTakeover https://t.co/HRs7imAzE5
— NewsRadio WFLA (@WFLANews) September 25, 2024
FCC’s Controversial Approval Process
The approval of Soros’ radio station acquisition has come under intense scrutiny, particularly from FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr. Carr has openly criticized the Commission for deviating from its standard review procedures, suggesting a lack of transparency and potential backdoor dealings.
“The FCC is not following its normal process for reviewing transactions that it has established over a number of years. It seems to me the FCC is poised, for the first time, to create an entirely new shortcut,” said Carr.
The deal’s approval in October came with a 3-2 party-line vote, further fueling concerns about political motivations. This has prompted Republican lawmakers to vow a thorough investigation into the matter, questioning whether proper procedures were followed and if there was undue influence in the decision-making process.
Soros’ Media Influence and Political Implications
George Soros, known for his substantial financial contributions to left-wing political causes, has long been a figure of interest and controversy in American politics. His acquisition of such a significant number of radio stations has raised concerns about the potential for increased media influence and its impact on public discourse.
Soros’ history of funding progressive initiatives, including abortion rights advocacy, district attorney elections, and racial justice agendas, has made this media acquisition particularly noteworthy to conservative observers. The deal is seen by some as part of a broader strategy to shape American political narratives through media ownership.
Call for Further Investigation
Senator Kennedy has called for a comprehensive review of the deal by Carr who was recently appointed FCC Chairman by President Trump. This review is expected to scrutinize the approval process, ensuring that all procedures were correctly followed and that there is full transparency in media ownership changes of this magnitude.
“The Democrats in FCC leadership cut a secret, backroom deal – one that kept the Republican FCC Commissioners and perhaps others completely in the dark – and then hustled it out the door on a Friday afternoon,” Carr reportedly told the New York Post.
The controversy surrounding this acquisition underscores the ongoing debate about media ownership concentration and its potential effects on the variety of viewpoints in American broadcasting. As the investigation unfolds, time will tell if corruption or coercion played a factor in the unusual expedition of the purchase by Soros.
