Five more states have joined a federal antitrust lawsuit against the merger of Nexstar and Tegna, aiming to prevent what would become the largest local television station operator in the United States. This move is significant as it highlights concerns over media consolidation and its impact on local journalism.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who is leading the challenge, announced that Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Vermont are now part of the lawsuit, making it a bipartisan effort. Bonta stated that the merger is illegal and could lead to increased prices, job cuts for journalists, and reduced media diversity.
The additional states support a group of plaintiffs that includes attorneys general from Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia. They filed an amended complaint on Thursday. While most of the states backing the lawsuit are led by Democrats, Indiana and Kansas have Republican attorneys general.
Two weeks ago, U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley issued a preliminary injunction to pause the merger while the case is ongoing. Bonta described this decision as a “critical win” for their case.
Recently, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and the Justice Department approved the merger, supported by President Donald Trump. The FCC waived a rule that prevents a company from owning stations reaching over 39% of U.S. households. Estimates suggest that the merged entity would reach as much as 80% of households.
Next steps in the case will be closely monitored as the legal proceedings continue.
