Some TV Networks Won't Air Trump's Speech Live
President Trump's prime-time speech on Thursday evening will not receive live coverage on at least two of the four major TV networks. The speech will be available via streaming on some networks.
President Trump is scheduled to give a prime-time speech on Thursday evening. At least two of the four major TV networks will not air the speech live. NBC News will provide live coverage of the president's remarks on NBC News NOW and air a special report afterward. ABC will air the speech on its 24/7 streaming channel, ABC News Live, and ABC News Radio, and will provide comprehensive coverage in its regular network newscasts. CBS and FOX have yet to announce their plans for the speech.
The president's speech is expected to center around election security. Trump has promised 'really big news' in his 9pm ET speech. Broadcasters have long exercised editorial judgment about whether to air presidential addresses, including speeches by Democratic presidents. In 2022, ABC, CBS, and NBC all declined to run a speech by President Biden about threats to democracy that sharply criticized Trump and those who denied the 2020 election results.
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What is President Trump's speech about?
The president's speech is expected to center around election security. He has promised 'really big news' in his 9pm ET speech, though he's signaled it will center on 'free and fair elections'.
Which TV networks will air the speech live?
NBC News will provide live coverage of the president's remarks on NBC News NOW. ABC will air the speech on its 24/7 streaming channel, ABC News Live, and ABC News Radio.
Why are some TV networks not airing the speech live?
The TV networks are exercising editorial judgment about whether to air the presidential address. They may be concerned about airing potentially false information about the 2020 election, or risk backlash from the White House and the FCC.
Is it unusual for TV networks to decline to air a presidential speech?
No, it's not unusual. Broadcasters have long exercised editorial judgment about whether to air presidential addresses, including speeches by Democratic presidents. In 2022, ABC, CBS, and NBC all declined to run a speech by President Biden about threats to democracy.
How can I watch the president's speech if it's not airing live on TV?
The speech will be available via streaming on some networks, such as ABC News Live and NBC News NOW. You can also check the networks' websites or social media channels for updates on how to watch the speech.
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