Controversy Surrounds Graphic Political Ads Aired on ABC Affiliates

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Viewers of “The View” and other programming on KCRG-TV9 may come across a political advertisement that has ignited discussion and concern. This ad, aired under federal mandate, features graphic images of abortion and is part of a campaign by presidential candidate Randal Terry. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) anti-censorship laws, broadcast stations, including ABC and KCRG-TV9, are required to air advertisements from officially recognized political candidates without censorship, no matter the content.

Randal Terry, who is campaigning as the Constitution Party‘s candidate, is running in 13 states, although Iowa is not one of them. However, due to his status as a federal office candidate, the FCC regulations still apply to ABC and its affiliates. “Broadcast stations are prohibited from censoring or rejecting political ads that are paid for and sponsored by legally qualified candidates,” reads the statement from the FCC, underscoring the network’s obligation to comply with this federal guideline.

Similar concerns were echoed in Chicago, where ABC7, a local affiliate, has also been required to broadcast Terry’s advertisement. In a communication by ABC7’s management, they reaffirmed their legal obligation stating, “By law, WLS-TV must air the ad.” The FCC provides a distinct classification for such ads, differentiating them from those by non-candidate third parties which do not enjoy the same protection against censorship.

These commercials have spurred discussions due to their graphic nature, prompting mixed reactions from the audience and media observers. The ads, focused on anti-abortion advocacy, are seen by many as provocative. Despite this, the FCC mandate limits the networks’ ability to block or modify content provided it originates from a qualified political candidate.