Key takeaways:

• Donald Trump vowed to take on ABC after it brought back Jimmy Kimmel Live!
• Nexstar and Sinclair still refuse to air the comedian’s show.
• Observers slammed the president’s move as a threat to free speech.
• Trump hinted at legal action, citing a past $16 million award.

Late Tuesday, the president posted on Truth Social that he would “test ABC” after it reinstated Jimmy Kimmel Live! He wrote that the White House was told the show was canceled. Then he added he’d fought ABC before and won $16 million. With that, Trump threatens ABC once more over a late-night comedy show.

Why Trump Threatens ABC Now

Ever since Kimmel made jokes about the killer of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, two major station groups stopped airing his show. Nexstar and Sinclair cited “insensitive” content. However, Disney moved to restore the program in most ABC markets. As a result, Trump threatens ABC yet again. He sees the network’s decision as a slight against his influence.

Networks Split on Jimmy Kimmel

Nexstar released a statement saying it won’t air the show. Its leaders want “respectful, constructive dialogue.” Sinclair plans to preempt Kimmel as well. Meanwhile, Disney affirmed the show’s return in most places. Thus, some viewers will see Kimmel while others will not. This split underscores how media power can shape what audiences watch.

Critics React to Trump’s Threat

On social media, pundits blasted the president. Keith Olbermann told Trump to “take the L here” and move on. Immigration lawyer Aaron Reichlin-Melnick called the threat “just background noise in our broken politics.” Economist Dean Baker asked what legal grounds exist for suing ABC over jokes. Podcaster Armand Domalewski pointed out how the fight disproves any claim of no government interference. Therefore, critics see this move as an attack on speech.

Legal Questions and Next Steps

If Trump sues ABC, he must show actual harm. For example, a lost contract or reputation damage. Yet, Kimmel’s ratings could climb with the controversy. Moreover, First Amendment issues arise if a president pressures a network. Legal experts believe a court would likely toss a suit over “distasteful” jokes. Nevertheless, Trump threatens ABC again, keeping uncertainty alive.

What Comes Next

ABC affiliates will air Jimmy Kimmel Live! in most cities starting this week. Nexstar and Sinclair markets will show alternative programming. Viewers in those areas might miss the late-night monologue. Meanwhile, Trump’s threat could chill other networks against critical coverage. However, it might also spur legal and political debate on media freedom.

The president’s post on Truth Social appears to test whether he can influence network choices. In the past, he targeted CNN and other outlets with lawsuits or defamation threats. This new chapter shows how media battles remain central in modern politics. Ultimately, Trump threatens ABC yet again, and many are watching what happens next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Trump threaten ABC?

He was upset that ABC restored Jimmy Kimmel Live! after Nexstar and Sinclair suspended it. He claimed he’d previously won $16 million against ABC.

Which networks still refuse to air Kimmel?

Nexstar Media Group and Sinclair Broadcast Group will not air Jimmy Kimmel Live! They cited a need for respectful dialogue.

What could a lawsuit against ABC involve?

A suit would need to show ABC caused Trump real harm. Courts might reject claims over a comedic monologue.

How does this affect free speech?

Critics warn that presidential threats to networks can chill journalistic and creative expression. Observers worry it sets a concerning precedent.