FCC Chair Brendan Carr's White House Coordination: Inside Look 2026

FCC Chair Brendan Carr's close coordination with the White House and rightwing media has been revealed through a trove of documents obtained via FOIA. The records show at least eight White House meetings and multiple calls with top officials, including Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and RFK Jr. This raises serious questions about the independence of the Federal Communications Commission.

Carr's White House Meetings and Calls

According to the documents, between March 12, 2025, and February 11, 2026, Carr attended at least eight meetings at the White House. He also had at least three scheduled calls with administration officials, including two conversations with Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. Additionally, he spoke by phone with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. These interactions suggest a level of coordination that goes beyond routine regulatory oversight.

Key Meetings and Calls

The records detail specific engagements that highlight the depth of Carr's involvement with the executive branch. For instance, his meetings with media executives like Lachlan Murdoch and David Smith indicate a strategic alignment with conservative media interests.

Media Strategy and Rightwing Influence

The documents also reveal Carr's media strategy, including communications with producers at Fox News. This coordination with rightwing media outlets raises concerns about the FCC's impartiality in regulating broadcast licenses. The unprecedented order forcing ABC to apply early for license renewals came just one day after President Trump and Melania called for ABC to be punished for a joke by Jimmy Kimmel.

Implications for Broadcast Licensing

Carr's actions suggest a politicization of the FCC's regulatory role. The agency is supposed to operate independently, but these records indicate a direct line to the White House and media allies. This could set a dangerous precedent for future license decisions.

• At least eight White House meetings in under a year
• Direct calls with Chief of Staff Susie Wiles
• Coordination with Fox News producers
• Meetings with media titans like Lachlan Murdoch
• Unprecedented ABC license renewal order

FAQ

These revelations underscore the need for transparency in regulatory agencies. As the FCC continues to make decisions that affect broadcasters and the public, the close ties between its chair and the White House demand scrutiny.