Trump Praises Nexstar-Tegna Deal He Previously Criticized

The former president had earlier opposed the $6.2 billion acquisition, but now supports it.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Former President Donald Trump has endorsed Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of rival broadcaster Tegna, despite previously opposing the deal. Trump had criticized the merger, but has now reversed his stance and is backing the acquisition.

Why it matters

The Nexstar-Tegna deal is a significant consolidation in the broadcast media industry, which has seen increased M&A activity in recent years. Trump's change of position on the deal highlights the shifting political dynamics around media mergers and acquisitions.

The details

Nexstar, one of the largest owners of local TV stations in the U.S., announced plans in 2019 to acquire Tegna, another major local TV station group. Trump had initially criticized the deal, but has now voiced his support for the acquisition, which is expected to close in the coming months.

  • The Nexstar-Tegna deal was announced in 2019.
  • Trump initially criticized the merger, but has now endorsed it.

The players

Nexstar Media Group

One of the largest owners of local TV stations in the United States.

Tegna

Another major local TV station group that is being acquired by Nexstar.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has now endorsed the Nexstar-Tegna deal after previously opposing it.

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The takeaway

Trump's change of position on the Nexstar-Tegna deal highlights the shifting political dynamics around media mergers and acquisitions, as the former president has now endorsed a deal he previously criticized.