A US communications regulator is examining whether a British news program violated American broadcasting standards through its editing of a speech delivered by former President Donald Trump.
The Federal Communications Commission has formally inquired whether the controversial program was ever broadcast to American audiences. This determination could prove crucial for any potential legal proceedings.
The investigation follows the resignation of two senior broadcasting executives after internal criticism emerged regarding the program’s editing techniques. The broadcaster subsequently acknowledged it had improperly combined segments from Trump’s January 2021 address that were originally delivered nearly an hour apart.
Trump has threatened legal action seeking billions in damages, though no formal lawsuit has been filed. The broadcaster’s leadership has indicated it intends to vigorously contest any claims of defamation.
The regulatory inquiry focuses on whether the edited material was distributed to American media partners. The FCC’s jurisdiction typically applies only to content broadcast within the United States.
Legal experts suggest the broadcaster maintains a strong defensive position, particularly regarding jurisdictional questions. The case would likely involve complex legal arguments requiring substantial resources to litigate.
The program in question aired shortly before the recent presidential election and presented Trump’s remarks in a manner that critics argue misrepresented his actual statements. The editing created the impression of continuous dialogue that originally occurred at separate points during his address.
The broadcaster confirmed receiving the regulatory inquiry but declined further comment on the ongoing matter.
