ABC is encouraging viewers to voice support for the network as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) investigates the network’s programming, particularly its daytime talk show The View, according to The Guardian and MS NOW. The network will begin airing targeted s on Monday during commercial breaks on The View and in eight local markets, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, as part of a campaign to renew its broadcast licenses.

Ads Call for Public Support in License Renewal

The 20-second ads begin with a clip from the late Barbara Walters, who founded The View in 1997. In the ad, Walters is heard saying, “I had this idea for a show: different women, different points of view.” A narrator then urges viewers: “The View has welcomed your favorite guests and covered the issues you care about for nearly 30 years. Now, the FCC wants to control who is allowed to appear on the show. Viewers, use your voice.”

Separate ads targeting local ABC stations, such as WABC in New York, emphasize the network’s long-standing community service. One ad states, “Channel 7 has proudly served you for more than 75 years. Now the FCC is questioning our commitment to the community. Show your support.” Viewers are encouraged to submit comments to the FCC by July 6, according to MS NOW.

FCC Probes Stem from Talarico Interviews

The FCC opened an investigation into The View in February after the show interviewed Democratic Senate nominee James Talarico of Texas, MS NOW reported. The agency is examining whether the show violated the equal time rule, which requires broadcasters to give rival political candidates equal access and opportunities. Around the same time, late-night host Stephen Colbert said CBS had pulled Talarico’s scheduled appearance on the Late Show out of concerns it might also violate the rule. Colbert’s interview with Talarico was instead posted online.

The FCC changed a rule in January that reclassified talk shows, making it more difficult for shows hosting political candidates to qualify as “bona fide news” programs. Such shows are exempt from the equal time rule. The agency stated the rule change “seeks to ensure that no legally qualified candidate for office is unfairly given less access to the public airwaves than their opponent.”

Controversy Over FCC Investigations and License Renewals

ABC’s license renewals were not scheduled to expire until 2031, according to The Guardian. Critics of FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel’s conduct suggest that the current investigations may reflect a broader attempt to pressure the network. ABC has previously settled a lawsuit filed by Donald Trump for $16 million, and the network is regularly criticized by the former president. Some critics argue that the FCC investigations are effectively an “open season” on ABC.

The ad campaign aims to raise awareness about the complex and unclear timeline of the investigations, ensuring the public understands the potential consequences for the network. Viewers are being directed to a QR code on-screen, linking to the FCC’s comment portal, where they can submit their support for the station’s license renewal by July 6.