FCC Chair Links DEI Policies to Merger Approval Decisions

Brendan Carr warns companies like Paramount and Verizon that maintaining diversity initiatives could jeopardize regulatory approval for mergers.

FCC Chair Brendan Carr has stated that companies promoting 'invidious' DEI policies may face obstacles in gaining approval for mergers and acquisitions.
Major deals under review include Paramount's $8 billion merger with Skydance Media and Verizon's $9.6 billion acquisition of Frontier Communications.
Paramount has already scaled back its DEI initiatives, such as representation goals, following regulatory scrutiny.
Democratic lawmakers have criticized the FCC's actions as politically motivated and a potential threat to First Amendment protections.
The FCC is also investigating media companies and China-based firms for potential regulatory violations, broadening its scope beyond DEI policies.