8 states, including California and New York, sue to block $6.2B Nexstar-Tegna merger California, New York, and six other states filed a lawsuit late Wednesday to block Nexstar’s proposed $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, arguing the merger violates federal antitrust laws. The states claim the deal would reduce competition in the broadcast media industry and harm local journalism by consolidating control over a significant portion of U.S. television stations. California Attorney General Rob Bonta and New York Attorney General Letitia James led the legal effort, joined by attorneys general from Colorado, Illinois, Oregon, North Carolina, Connecticut, and Virginia. The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California and cites Section 7 of the Clayton Antitrust Act, which prohibits mergers that “substantially lessen competition.” Bonta’s office argues the deal would weaken competition in the Sacramento and San Diego media markets, while James’ office highlights concerns about consolidation in the Buffalo area. Nexstar and Tegna have not yet responded to requests for comment on the lawsuit. The merger would create a combined entity reaching nearly 60% of U.S. households, surpassing the current federal rule that limits a single company to 39% market share. Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr has publicly supported the deal, stating, “Let’s get it done,” but the FCC has not announced plans to vote on revising the ownership cap. The agency declined to comment on the matter. The lawsuit also draws attention to broader antitrust concerns in the media industry. Recently, over two dozen state attorneys general, including both Republicans and Democrats, filed a motion for a mistrial in a federal case targeting Live Nation and Ticketmaster.#california #new_york #letitia_james #rob_bonta #clayton_antitrust_act
