Trump Praises Nexstar-Tegna Broadcast TV Deal He Once Opposed

The former president has changed his stance on the $6.2 billion acquisition.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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President Donald Trump has endorsed Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion purchase of broadcast rival Tegna, a reversal from his earlier criticism of the deal. In November, Trump had spoken out against the acquisition, but he is now praising the transaction between the two companies that operate independently of the major broadcast networks.

Why it matters

Trump's endorsement of the Nexstar-Tegna deal represents a significant shift in his position, as he had previously criticized the transaction. This change in stance could signal a broader shift in the former president's views on media consolidation and the role of independent broadcast companies.

The details

In September, Nexstar and Sinclair Broadcast Group, a right-leaning media company, suspended Jimmy Kimmel's ABC late-night talk show for about a week after Kimmel made comments about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The Nexstar-Tegna deal will create one of the largest broadcast television groups in the United States.

  • In November 2025, Trump criticized the Nexstar-Tegna deal.
  • On February 7, 2026, Trump endorsed the $6.2 billion acquisition.

The players

Nexstar Media Group

A media company that operates independently of the major broadcast networks, such as ABC and NBC.

Tegna

A broadcast rival of Nexstar Media Group, which Nexstar is acquiring in a $6.2 billion deal.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, who has changed his stance on the Nexstar-Tegna deal.

Sinclair Broadcast Group

A right-leaning media company that, along with Nexstar, suspended Jimmy Kimmel's ABC late-night talk show for comments about the assassination of a conservative activist.

Jimmy Kimmel

The host of the ABC late-night talk show that was suspended by Nexstar and Sinclair Broadcast Group for comments about the assassination of a conservative activist.

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What they’re saying

“In November, Trump had criticized the purchase.”

— Donald Trump, Former President of the United States (bakersfield.com)

The takeaway

Trump's endorsement of the Nexstar-Tegna deal represents a significant shift in his stance on media consolidation, potentially signaling a broader change in his views on the role of independent broadcast companies in the industry.