FCC Chair Wants Networks to Pledge Loyalty for America's Big Bday

Source: Hacker News

Background

Until now, current chair of the Federal Communications Commission Brendan Carr has mostly been in the news for his role in weaponizing the FCC to serve the aims of this administration. In December, he testified to Congress that his office is, erm, actually “not formally an independent agency,” right before removing the word “independent” from the mission statement on the agency’s website. More recently, he continued his tradition of threatening late‑night hosts by again harassing CBS about Colbert and desperately trying to make enforcement of the “equal‑time rule” a cudgel worth fearing.

But Carr’s not always playing the heel. He wants you to know he’s got a fun side too and is showing that off by helping to plan what is sure to be this summer’s most legendary party. In a statement on Friday, he let his (proverbial) hair down and offered broadcasters strongly worded suggestions about what gifts the nation (and President) would most like to receive in commemoration of the “big 2‑5‑0.”

“As America’s 250th anniversary approaches, it is important to reflect on the ideals and events that have defined our past while keeping an eye towards our country’s bright future,” said Carr. “I am calling on broadcasters to pledge to provide programming that promotes civic education, national pride, and our shared history.”

Carr’s Proposal for the Semiquincentennial

Demonstrating exactly why he’s a Tier 1 operator in President Trump’s Salute to America 250 Task Force, Carr went on to provide numerous suggestions for how networks could best hug the flag on this most momentous of occasions. According to Carr, they could air “PSAs, short segments, or full specials specifically promoting civic education, inspiring local stories, and American history.”

Suggested Programming Ideas

• Daily “Today in American History” – short announcements highlighting significant events that occurred on that date.
• Pop‑Up‑Video‑style segments – modern takes on VH1’s Pop‑Up Video to add context and trivia.
• Spotlights on National Parks – brief features woven into regular news programming.
• Patriotic music interludes – start each broadcast day with the “Star‑Spangled Banner” or the Pledge of Allegiance.

Patriotic Music Recommendations

When Carr passes you the aux on July 4th, he doesn’t want the usual pinko fare. This semiquincentennial bash is only bumping bangers by American OGs: Gershwin, Copland, Ellington, and, if you really want to see Carr get “sturdy,” a dose of John Philip Sousa.

Pledge America Campaign

Carr closed out his statement by asking networks to “patriotically clown on Independence Day” and swear their fealty and commitment to the above requests by joining his Pledge America Campaign. He said he looks forward to broadcasters “taking the Pledge and fulfilling their public interest mandate,” noting that participation is completely voluntary.

Time will tell what displays of jingoism await us this summer. If America’s birthday is anything like the lit parade they had last year for the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary—brought to you by Coinbase—we’re all in for an unforgettable experience.