Already, rumors are swirling that other networks, including Fox and CNN, are preparing to swoop in and take advantage of ABC’s weakened position. Fox, in particular, is reportedly eyeing the opportunity to present itself as the go-to network for “unbiased” debate coverage in future elections.

“ABC has left a vacuum,” said one media executive. “They had a chance to be the gold standard for political coverage, and they blew it. Now someone else is going to step in and take that spot.”

In the wake of this controversy, the big question is whether ABC will actually learn from its mistakes or continue down the same path. Viewers have made it clear that they expect more from a network that prides itself on journalistic integrity. And while the network’s half-hearted acknowledgment of its misstep is a start, it may not be enough to win back the trust they’ve lost.

“ABC can apologize all they want, but actions speak louder than words,” said one former viewer. “If they really care about fairness, they need to prove it in their next debate. Otherwise, they’re just another biased network pretending to be neutral.”

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