The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to deliver its findings on February 25, 2025, regarding billionaire George Soros’ acquisition of over 200 Audacy radio stations across the United States. The briefing, led by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, will take place in a closed-door meeting with Republican lawmakers from the Republican Study Committee (RSC). The investigation focuses on concerns that Soros’ influence over local media could shape political narratives, as well as the potential irregularities in the expedited approval process of the deal.
Concerns Over Soros-Backed Media Takeover
The FCC launched its review after it was revealed that Soros’ investment firm acquired a controlling stake in Audacy, one of the largest radio station networks in the country. By purchasing a significant portion of Audacy’s debt, Soros’ firm effectively gained substantial control over its operations, including major news and talk radio stations.
Conservatives have raised alarms over what they see as a leftist billionaire consolidating control over local media outlets, fearing that Soros’ influence could lead to biased coverage and suppression of conservative voices. Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) has been vocal about his concerns, stating, “The FCC needs to explain why this deal was rushed through and whether it serves the public interest or just one billionaire’s political agenda.”
FCC Scrutinizes Soros-Owned KCBS for Exposing ICE Agents
Adding to the controversy, the FCC is also investigating San Francisco-based KCBS 740 AM, one of the stations now under Soros’ control, for broadcasting the live locations of undercover Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during operations in East San Jose. The station allegedly aired details about ICE movements, putting law enforcement officers at risk.
FCC Chairman Carr described the incident as “deeply concerning,” emphasizing that media outlets have a responsibility not to endanger the lives of law enforcement personnel. The FCC’s review will assess whether KCBS violated public interest obligations, which could result in fines or possible license revocation.
Expedited Approval Process Under Scrutiny
Another key aspect of the FCC investigation is the speed at which the deal was approved. Typically, media ownership changes undergo extensive regulatory review to assess market competition, viewpoint diversity, and national security risks. However, critics argue that the Biden-era FCC leadership fast-tracked Soros’ acquisition without conducting proper scrutiny.
Republican lawmakers want answers on whether political bias played a role in the approval process. They argue that if a conservative billionaire attempted a similar takeover, the regulatory hurdles would have been far greater. The FCC is expected to clarify whether the acquisition was given preferential treatment and if further regulatory actions are warranted.
Broader Implications for Media and Free Speech
The findings of the FCC investigation could have significant implications for media ownership in the U.S. Conservative leaders are pushing for stricter regulations to prevent ideological billionaires from monopolizing local news outlets. Some lawmakers are even calling for divestiture, which would force Soros’ investment firm to sell off stations to maintain media plurality.
At the same time, the controversy has renewed calls for stricter oversight on media organizations that engage in politically motivated reporting. Critics argue that the rise of leftist-controlled media networks threatens balanced journalism and limits access to alternative perspectives.
As the FCC prepares to present its findings, the future of Soros’ media influence remains uncertain. Republican lawmakers are expected to take further legislative action if the report confirms regulatory failures or misconduct in the acquisition process.
