Former U.S. President Donald Trump has escalated his long-standing battle with mainstream media, warning that he may seek to revoke the broadcast licenses of NBC and ABC. The remarks, made during a recent campaign rally, highlight Trump’s persistent grievances against what he deems “dishonest and unfair coverage” by major television networks.

This latest attack on the press carries broader implications, not only for the media landscape but also for the political environment as the United States edges closer to the 2026 midterm elections.

A Renewed Offensive Against Mainstream Media

Trump’s criticisms of NBC and ABC are part of a broader campaign strategy that has consistently cast the press as an adversary. In his speech, he accused the networks of “spreading lies” and “working against the American people,” signaling a renewed effort to galvanize his political base through anti-media rhetoric.

Media experts note that while Trump has frequently targeted journalists and outlets in the past, the explicit threat to revoke licenses marks a significant escalation. “This goes beyond criticism and enters the realm of potential government interference in free speech,” said Karen Whitfield, a professor of media law at Columbia University.

Legal and Regulatory Challenges

Despite the boldness of Trump’s threats, actual revocation of broadcast licenses is far from straightforward. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), an independent agency, oversees licensing and would require substantial evidence of wrongdoing to justify such a drastic measure.

“Revoking a license for political reasons would be unprecedented and likely face immediate legal challenges,” noted David Harper, a former FCC attorney. “Courts have consistently upheld First Amendment protections, making such actions virtually impossible without overwhelming justification.”

The discussion nonetheless underscores how political figures can leverage regulatory threats to influence media behavior, even without carrying them out.

Political Strategy and Implications

Strategically, Trump’s remarks may serve to rally his core supporters who have long distrusted mainstream outlets. By framing NBC and ABC as part of a hostile establishment, he strengthens a narrative of outsider defiance that has fueled his political career.

However, this tactic also carries risks. Escalating tensions with the media could alienate moderate voters concerned about democratic norms and freedom of the press. It also invites intensified scrutiny from journalists and watchdog organizations who view such threats as dangerous precedents.

What to Watch Moving Forward

As the 2026 election cycle approaches, Trump’s stance toward the press could become a defining feature of his campaign. Investors, media companies, and political analysts alike will be watching for potential regulatory moves, public backlash, and how other candidates respond to these escalating attacks on the press.

For now, Trump’s threats remain rhetorical—but they raise critical questions about the balance between political power, media freedom, and democratic resilience in the United States.