Hearings

We Interrupt This Program: Media Ownership in the Digital Age

February 10, 2026
10:00 AM

Chairman Cruz Announces February 10th Hearing on Broadcast Media Ownership Rules

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a full committee hearing titled “We Interrupt This Program: Media Ownership in the Digital Age” on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, at 10:00 am EST. This hearing will examine the Federal Communications Commission’s current broadcast media ownership rules—particularly one rule limiting a single broadcaster from reaching beyond 39 percent of U.S. television households nationwide—in light of today’s evolving media landscape. As more Americans consume video content through streaming services and social media, the original intent of media ownership rules—to promote competition and diversity by limiting the number of media outlets a single entity may own—warrants review. Some telecommunications experts contend, however, that the current 39 percent cap is statutory, meaning it can only be changed by an act of Congress and not through regulation. Other critics worry possible changes to media ownership rules will result in fewer conservative voices on broadcast television.

Upon announcing the hearing, Sen. Cruz said:

“The media market is changing rapidly, leading many to wonder if broadcast media ownership rules should reflect this new reality. This hearing is an important opportunity to discuss whether existing rules are legally sound, antiquated, or need to be updated to promote competition and protect against corporate censorship against conservatives.”

Witnesses:

  • Mr. Chris Ruddy, Chief Executive Officer, Newsmax
  • Mr. Curtis LeGeyt, President and Chief Executive Officer, National Association of Broadcaster
  • Mr. Thomas Johnson, Partner and Co-Chair of Issues and Appeals, Wiley Rein LLP
  • Mr. Steve Waldman, President, Rebuild Local News

Hearing Details:

WHAT: Full Committee Hearing titled “We Interrupt This Program: Media Ownership in the Digital Age”

DATE: Tuesday, February 10, 2026

TIME: 10:00 AM EST

LOCATION: Committee Hearing Room, Russell 253

LIVESTREAM: The hearing will stream live on the Committee web site and YouTube.

MEDIA INFO: Reporters wanting to attend the committee should contact their respective media gallery to RSVP.

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