The Next Right-Wing-Created Phony Scandal

Up next in the array of faux scandals invented by the right, is the claim that President Obama wants to control speech in the media using the FCC.

…there are concerns from Congress regarding the FCC chairman and plans, as it appears to be an examination of political speech across media platforms, which obviously triggers serious First Amendment concerns. In light of the Internal Revenue Service admissions and the targeting of mostly conservative groups for more scrutiny, issues have been voiced.

The FCC’s Multi-Market Study is described by Social Solutions International:

“Social Solutions has been tasked with the development of a research design that can be used to identify and understand the critical information needs (CINs) of the American public (with special emphasis on vulnerable/disadvantaged populations).”It seems benign, but the study begins this year and sends interrogators into selected news organizations to collect a broad range of information. Questions arise. For instance, why does the FCC want to interrogate news people on their viewpoints, topic selections, management styles or any news organization circumstances? It does appear to be an effort by the FCC to invade and interrogate news producers and reporters about their work and content choices.

A letter from Congressman Fred Upton on the House E & C Committee, requesting that the FCC suspend the study, was mentioned in the Broadcasting&Cable article. Upton believed the study included provisions for “FCC funded agents to question the editorial decisions of journalists, producers, and other news professionals.” Further, according to reporter John Eggerton:

“They saw that as the FCC putting itself back in the business of controlling political speech, the “back” being a reference to the former Fairness Doctrine requirement that broadcasters seek out opposing viewpoints on issues of importance.”

By: Sheldon