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Sunday, Sep. 20, 2020

Can TV stations restrict the content of political ads placed by candidates for federal office?

Allegra Taylor, Gigafact Foundry
no

TV channels can't censor or reject political advertisements after a legally qualified candidate has purchased air time. Broadcast stations are subsequently exempt from any potential liability that may be associated with the ad's content.

Federal Communications Commission regulations entitle presidential, vice presidential and congressional candidates to “reasonable access” to commercial airwaves, regardless of the station's political leaning. A TV station may legally choose not to sell advertisements to state or local candidates.

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