When the government threatens broadcasters over “fake polls” and “fake news,” it is claiming jurisdiction over which is which.
On Wednesday (10/21/26), FCC Chair Brendan Carr warned broadcasters that airing what he called “entirely Fake Polls and Suppression Polls” could violate their federal licensing obligations.
The warning came a day after a polling firm called Wedgewood admitted fabricating most of its election surveys. Its invented numbers had appeared in major polling databases and been cited by news outlets.
But Carr identified no broadcaster that knowingly aired fabricated polls.
This latest move has background. In August, President Trump demanded FCC action against what he called fake polls used by the media. He has repeatedly dismissed unfavorable polling as fake. In September, Carr said the agency was considering “guidance” on fake polling.
Carr has also ordered early license reviews of eight ABC-owned television stations. ABC challenged that action in court, alleging retaliation for its journalism.
Now, the FCC is warning broadcasters about their licenses over election polling.
A fabricated poll is one thing, but a legitimate poll showing the president losing support is quite another.
When the government threatens broadcasters over “fake polls” and “fake news,” it is claiming jurisdiction over which is which.
Sources
- Reuters: FCC chair warns broadcasters about fake polls
- Axios: Wedgewood polling fabrication investigation
- Ars Technica: Trump’s August demand and Carr’s October warning
- CNN transcript: Carr discusses possible fake-poll guidance in September
- FCC: Early renewal applications for eight ABC stations
- Axios: ABC’s First Amendment lawsuit against the FCC
