Can political ads use images of journalists without permission?

Keloland News responded to questions from viewers after its long-time anchor Tom Hanson was seen in a political advertisement for U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds, who is running for re-election.

Keloland said it does not endorse political candidates, Rounds included. But the political action committee that made the ad is legally able to include the news clip of Hanson (who previously worked at KDLT-TV) under the Federal Communications Commission’s fair use doctrine.

Broadcast stations, under FCC laws, cannot censor, change or reject political ads that are from a “legally qualified candidates” running for federal offices.

Legally qualified candidates must be qualified to run under state or federal law, publicly announce an intention to run and be qualified to appear on the ballot.

The FCC does not review or pre-approve the content of political ads, ensure the accuracy of statements, or require broadcast stations to provide all sides of controversial issues.