Lafayette Reporter

Senator John Kennedy has called on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to re-evaluate its decision allowing a company, partly backed by foreign investments and billionaire George Soros, to acquire licenses for over 200 U.S. radio stations. Kennedy's request emphasizes ensuring compliance with FCC procedures and assessing national security implications.

Kennedy expressed concern over the acquisition of WWL AM radio in New Orleans, describing it as an institution in Louisiana. He criticized the FCC's approval process, stating that it was expedited along party lines last September. "It was a party-line vote," he remarked, alleging that the Democrats on the commission bypassed standard procedures.

He also highlighted his disagreement with Soros's views on open borders and governance but acknowledged their right to hold such opinions. "My people in Louisiana are entitled to know whose opinion they are hearing on the radio," Kennedy stated.

Audacy, the second-largest radio station owner in the U.S., filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January 2024. Soros became its largest shareholder after acquiring $400 million of its debt at a discounted rate. This transaction resulted in more than 20% foreign ownership of Audacy.

The FCC traditionally restricts companies with significant foreign ownership from obtaining radio licenses, necessitating thorough investigations before any license transfer approvals. However, according to FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr, this process was allegedly rushed for Audacy without conducting typical investigations.

Carr, now chairman of the FCC, indicated he would closely examine any petition challenging this license transfer decision. Soros has been a notable donor to leftist causes and received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Biden shortly before leaving office.