It says it "expects to work with the FCC to explore ways to address the concerns identified," adding that “until we have reviewed the order it is difficult to explain the potential issues it might create for the transaction.”
Tribune ‘Disappointed’ By FCC’s Sinclair Issues
Tribune Media Co. announced Tuesday that it is studying the July 16 statement by FCC Chairman Ajit Pai on the company’s pending acquisition by Sinclair Broadcast Group, saying that he had evidence that Sinclair would “in practice, if not in name, control” stations that it had said it would divest to comply with the rules
And in light of that evidence, Pai said he had circulated an item to the other three commissioners asking for their vote to hold an administrative hearing on Sinclair and the merger.
Tribune issued the following statement:
“Tribune Media was disappointed to learn that the chairman had circulated an order designating certain issues for consideration by an Administrative Law Judge. It will review the FCC’s hearing designation order when released and expects to work with the FCC to explore ways to address the concerns identified. Until we have reviewed the order it is difficult to explain the potential issues it might create for the transaction.
“Fortunately, Tribune’s operations have been strong in 2018 and our team has done a terrific job of maximizing the value of the business through this extended regulatory approval process.”
Comments (5)
Knowsbetter says:
July 17, 2018 at 10:36 am
Tribune is looking for an out.
FreeRightsUSA says:
July 17, 2018 at 4:55 pm
Oh please, they took the easy way out by quickly agreeing to be bought by Sinclair. They knew darn well Sinclair’s reputation in how they operate their stations as well as the abuse of looking at the smoke and mirrors sidecar deals. Tribune has options, including selling their big city signals to station groups that would command a good price and maintain a level of honesty and quality.
Megatron81 says:
July 17, 2018 at 7:47 pm
Wrong Tribune didn’t take the easy way out as you have claim which is a lie without facts or proof.
Knowsbetter says:
July 17, 2018 at 7:52 pm
This has gone on too long. Tribune is weary and will sell directly to FOX and other willing buyers.
Megatron81 says:
July 17, 2018 at 11:16 pm
I could see them selling to Standard Media, and few others if the Sinclair merger doesn’t get approved. I think the UHF discount would be in play if the courts decide to rule against the discount returning then Fox could only buy Seattle from Tribune.