By Micah Jonah, February 21, 2026
The Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission has called on broadcast networks across the United States to air patriotic content as the country prepares to mark its 250th anniversary.
FCC Chair, Brendan Carr encouraged television and radio stations to voluntarily participate in the celebrations by airing civic education programmes, historical documentaries and public service announcements that promote national values.
Carr suggested that broadcasters could also begin daily transmissions with the national anthem or the Pledge of Allegiance as part of activities commemorating the milestone anniversary of America’s founding.
The proposal comes amid ongoing tensions between the commission and several major media networks, including Comcast, Fox Corp and Paramount Skydance Corp. None of the networks immediately issued formal responses to the suggestion.
The FCC chairman noted that broadcasters operate under a public interest obligation and said increased civic programming would help reinforce national unity, public awareness as anniversary activities gather momentum nationwide.
The call also comes at a time when the commission is reviewing complaints against some television programmes over compliance with equal time rules in political broadcasting.
Analysts say while the proposal is voluntary, it signals renewed emphasis by regulators on patriotic and civic content in mainstream American broadcasting ahead of the historic celebration.
