Senator Paul criticizes FCC's threat to regulate ABC over Kimmel’s comments, calling it government overreach.

Senator Rand Paul condemned FCC Chair Brendan Carr’s remarks suggesting regulatory action against ABC over comedian Jimmy Kimmel’s comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, calling the intervention “absolutely inappropriate.” Paul argued that while Kimmel’s remarks were controversial, the FCC has no authority to influence media employment decisions, and private companies have the right to manage content and staff based on conduct and business concerns. He emphasized that free speech does not guarantee job security, and government overreach in such matters undermines free expression. The controversy followed ABC’s indefinite suspension of Kimmel’s show after major affiliates pulled it, citing pressure from advertisers and sponsors, sparking a national debate over free speech, corporate responsibility, and the role of federal regulators in media.