ABC is under scrutiny after accusations surfaced that the network displayed clear bias during a debate between President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. The Center for American Rights has filed complaints with both the FCC and FEC, alleging that ABC violated broadcasting rules and improperly favored Harris.
The complaints center on the debate, where ABC’s moderators were criticized for fact-checking Trump but failing to hold Harris accountable on key issues. The FCC complaint argues that ABC failed to provide an impartial debate, which is a requirement for networks that use public airwaves.
Daniel Suhr, an attorney with the Center, highlighted the biased nature of the debate, claiming that the moderators selectively asked questions that were designed to criticize Trump while letting Harris make misleading claims without challenge. For example, Harris was not questioned on President Biden’s fitness for office or the assassination attempt on Trump.
In addition to the FCC complaint, the Center has filed a complaint with the FEC, accusing ABC of giving Harris an in-kind campaign donation. The complaint argues that by providing Harris with uncritical airtime, ABC essentially gave her free advertising. Federal law prohibits corporations from making contributions to presidential campaigns.
The FCC and FEC are expected to investigate, but no immediate action is anticipated. ABC has not commented on the complaints.