Eight States, DirecTV Sue to Block Nexstar-Tegna Merger

Lawsuits argue the $6.2 billion deal would lead to higher prices for consumers and hurt local journalism.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 9:12pm

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Attorneys general in eight states and DirecTV have filed lawsuits to block the merger of local television giants Nexstar Media Group and Tegna, arguing that it will lead to higher prices for consumers and stifle journalism. The deal would create a company that owns 265 television stations in 40 states and the District of Columbia.

Why it matters

The merger would significantly consolidate local television ownership, raising concerns about reduced competition, higher prices, and the potential impact on local news coverage in communities across the country.

The details

Nexstar announced plans to acquire Tegna for $6.2 billion last August. If approved, the combined company would own stations in 40 states, most of them local affiliates of major networks like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC. The lawsuits argue this would violate federal laws designed to protect against monopolies and require changes to FCC rules limiting station ownership.

  • Nexstar announced the $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna in August 2025.
  • The lawsuits were filed by eight state attorneys general and DirecTV on March 19, 2026.

The players

Nexstar Media Group

A major owner of local television stations, including many network affiliates.

Tegna

A rival local television station owner that Nexstar plans to acquire.

DirecTV

A satellite television provider that has also filed a lawsuit to block the Nexstar-Tegna merger.

Letitia James

The New York Attorney General who is leading the multistate lawsuit against the merger.

Brendan Carr

The FCC Chairman who has advocated for loosening restrictions on station ownership limits.

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What’s next

The lawsuits filed by the eight state attorneys general and DirecTV will now proceed through the U.S. District Court in Sacramento, California, where the cases were filed. The FCC will also need to review and approve the merger, which could face additional legal challenges.

The takeaway

This merger represents a significant consolidation of local television ownership that could reduce competition, lead to higher prices for consumers, and threaten the viability of local journalism in communities across the country. The multistate and industry lawsuits aim to block the deal on antitrust grounds and preserve a more diverse and competitive local media landscape.