In a highly unusual and confrontational move, US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to television networks in America, threatening to revoke their broadcasting licenses unless they portray him favorably. This dramatic escalation follows the ABC network’s decision to take the popular late-night show Jimmy Kimmel Live! off the air, reportedly under pressure from the federally controlled Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Speaking aboard Air Force One on Thursday, September 18, 2025, Trump harshly criticized Jimmy Kimmel, labeling him a “whack job” with “no talent.” The President accused TV networks of giving him predominantly negative coverage and suggested that the government should consider withdrawing their licenses if they continue what he described as biased reporting.
“They only give me bad publicity,” Trump said, “maybe their license should be taken away.” His statements signal a rare and direct threat against freedom of the press and the independence of broadcast media in the United States, raising significant concerns about government overreach and censorship.
The uproar began when ABC decided to remove “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” from its programming lineup, a move believed to be influenced by the FCC’s regulatory grip and the political atmosphere fueled by Trump’s administration. Kimmel, known for his sharp political satire and criticism of the President, had frequently been the target of Trump’s ire.
Trump’s attack on the networks extends beyond ABC. He broadly condemned US TV networks that do not cover him positively, implying that similar measures could be taken against them. His comments came amid growing tensions over media freedom and the role of government regulation in broadcasting.
Industry experts and media watchdogs have expressed alarm at the President’s remarks, highlighting the fundamental importance of a free and independent press as a cornerstone of democracy. The threat to revoke broadcast licenses—a power traditionally exercised to ensure technical and operational standards—being used as leverage against content critical of the President marks a disturbing precedent.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel has yet to publicly respond to the controversy surrounding his show’s cancellation or President Trump’s remarks. The unfolding situation has ignited intense debate about media rights, political polarization, and the balance of power between government agencies and broadcast entities.