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Pennsylvania Attorney General Dave Sunday has joined a multi-state lawsuit aimed at blocking the merger between Nexstar Media Group and TEGNA, two of the largest television broadcasting companies in the United States. The lawsuit, which now includes 13 states, argues that the $6.2 billion merger would create a "broadcast behemoth," reducing competition and potentially increasing television subscription costs for consumers.
The lawsuit claims that the merger would consolidate control over 264 TV stations across the country, including local affiliates of major networks such as ABC, CBS, NBC, and FOX. This consolidation could lead to fewer viewing options and higher costs for consumers, particularly in markets like Harrisburg and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in Pennsylvania. Sunday expressed concern that the merger would further stretch already tight budgets for Pennsylvanians.
Federal regulators had approved the acquisition earlier this year, but a judge has temporarily halted the merger while the legal challenge proceeds. The lawsuit, supported by attorneys general from states including California, New York, and Virginia, contends that the merger violates antitrust laws by diminishing competition among local TV stations.
Sunday stated, "Rising TV service subscription costs are already stretching budgets, and this merger would only push those budgets closer to breaking." The lawsuit highlights concerns that the merger would limit access to diverse local programming and reduce competition in 31 markets where both companies operate.
The legal challenge continues as state officials seek to ensure that consumers retain diverse and affordable television options. The outcome of this lawsuit could have significant implications for the broadcasting industry and viewers nationwide.