Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Mar. 19 that he has joined a coalition of eight attorneys general in filing a lawsuit to stop the proposed $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna Inc. by Nexstar Media Group Inc.
The lawsuit argues that the merger would create the largest broadcast station group in the United States, concentrating control over television programming and news in fewer hands and potentially harming consumers through higher prices, reduced competition, and job losses in local newsrooms.
“If allowed to proceed, the merger between Nexstar and TEGNA would create a broadcast behemoth with control over an unprecedented share of broadcast television content, including local news and sports,” Raoul said. “The effect would mean higher prices for Illinois consumers, less competition in local news and job cuts to newsrooms and on-air staff. Now more than ever, consumers should have access to the diverse ideas represented in independent newsrooms.”
The complaint was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California. The attorneys general argue that this deal violates Section 7 of the Clayton Act by substantially lessening competition or tending to create a monopoly. In Illinois markets such as the Quad Cities and St. Louis area, both companies already own major network affiliates, raising concerns about further consolidation’s impact on local journalism.
Federal authorities are also involved: The Federal Communications Commission must approve waivers for ownership limits that this deal would exceed. President Trump publicly supported the merger on Feb. 7 via social media, urging its completion as a way to counter what he called “Fake News National TV Networks.” FCC Chairman Brendan Carr responded online: “Let’s get it done.”
Raoul has previously intervened when federal actions appeared to favor corporate interests over consumer protection laws, referencing his opposition during other high-profile mergers.
The Illinois Attorney General’s office advocates for vulnerable groups including workers, immigrants, and seniors according to its official website. It handles thousands of consumer complaints each year according to its official website and aims to protect consumers while promoting safer communities and advocating for environmental issues according to its official website. The office extends these efforts across Illinois according to its official website, partners with law enforcement agencies to support crime victims and promote open government according to its official website, and offers services such as complaint filing for consumer fraud and civil rights matters according to its official website.
Joining Raoul in this legal action are attorneys general from California, Colorado, Connecticut, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia.
