Senator Ted Cruz is making headlines after fiercely criticizing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and its chairman, Brendan Carr, for what he calls "unbelievably dangerous" threats to revoke ABC's broadcast license. The controversy erupted following ABC's decision to pull late-night host Jimmy Kimmel off the air after Kimmel made inflammatory remarks about conservative influencer Charlie Kirk.
Cruz Calls Out "Mafioso" Tactics
On the latest episode of his podcast,
Verdict with Ted Cruz, the Texas Republican didn't mince words. While Cruz said he was "thrilled" that Kimmel was suspended by ABC, he drew a sharp line at government intervention in media. Cruz compared Chairman Carr's rhetoric to "mafioso" tactics, warning that such government overreach could easily backfire on conservatives if political power shifts in Washington.
"The idea that the government would threaten a broadcaster's license over speech is unbelievably dangerous," Cruz stated, emphasizing his belief in free speech protections—even for those he disagrees with.
The Jimmy Kimmel-ABC Fallout
The uproar began when ABC suspended Jimmy Kimmel after he made controversial comments about Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative figure. The FCC's Brendan Carr responded by publicly pressuring ABC, suggesting the network's license could be at risk. This move sparked immediate backlash from free speech advocates and lawmakers across the political spectrum.
Cruz, a frequent critic of mainstream media, surprised some by defending ABC's right to broadcast—even if he disagreed with their programming choices. He warned that allowing the government to police speech sets a dangerous precedent that could be used against conservatives in the future.
Cruz's Broader Free Speech Stance
This isn't the first time Cruz has positioned himself as a defender of free speech, even when it involves heated partisan disputes. In recent months, he has doubled down against groups funding protests against conservative voices like Charlie Kirk, and has pushed for legislative action to protect political speech from government interference.
Cruz's stance reflects a broader debate within the Republican Party about the limits of government power and the importance of First Amendment protections. While some conservatives have called for more aggressive action against perceived media bias, Cruz's comments highlight the risks of empowering federal agencies to regulate speech.
What This Means for Media and Politics
The FCC's threats against ABC—and Cruz's high-profile response—underscore the growing tensions between government regulators, media companies, and political figures. As the 2026 midterm elections approach, expect free speech and media regulation to remain hot-button issues.
For now, Cruz's warning is clear:
"If we let the government decide what speech is allowed, no one is safe—left or right."
Sources
1. 'Dangerous as hell': Cruz slams FCC chair's ABC threats - YouTube
2. Ted Cruz - Wikipedia
3. Press Releases | Senator Ted Cruz
4. About Ted | Senator Ted Cruz
5. 'Dangerous as hell': Cruz blasts FCC's Jimmy Kimmel takedown
6. Ted Cruz for Senate, et al. v. FEC
