Ted Cruz Opposes FCC Threats Over Kimmel Remark

Sen. Ted Cruz Warns Against Silencing Jimmy Kimmel

Sen. Ted Cruz issued a cautionary message on Friday, expressing concern that the conservative use of state power to silence Jimmy Kimmel could have negative repercussions in the future. Cruz emphasized that such actions could be turned against conservatives in a future Democratic administration.

In an episode of his podcast, “Verdict with Ted Cruz,” the Republican senator expressed his disapproval of Kimmel’s remarks and stated that he was pleased with Kimmel’s dismissal.

Cruz criticized FCC Chairman Brendan Carr for his threatening stance towards broadcast licenses in response to Kimmel’s comments about Charlie Kirk’s killer, likening Carr’s approach to that of a “mafioso.”

Warning about the potential consequences, Cruz stated, “There will come a time when a Democrat wins again, wins the White House. They will get rid of everything America that’s conservative. They will silence us. They will use this power and they will use it ruthlessly and that is dangerous.”

Kimmel was removed from the airwaves following Carr’s threats, with no plans announced for his return. The controversy stemmed from Kimmel’s comments on the portrayal of Charlie Kirk’s killer by the “MAGA gang.”

President Trump expressed support for Carr’s actions, warning broadcasters about potential consequences for criticizing him. Cruz, acknowledging the inappropriate nature of Kimmel’s remarks, highlighted the perceived bias of corporate media against conservatives.

While noting Kimmel’s history of mocking him, Cruz emphasized the danger of suppressing speech that the government disagrees with. He cautioned against using government power to silence opposing views, stressing the importance of free speech.

Cruz also criticized Kimmel’s comedic style post-Trump’s presidency, labeling it as “profoundly unfunny” and attributing it to the impact of Trump’s victory on late-night comedy.