In a scathing press release, NBC Comcast explained their decision. “ABC has crossed a line,” the statement read. “Their so-called debate was a disaster. They owe the American people an apology for turning what should have been a fair and balanced exchange into a farce of journalistic arrogance. Until such an apology is issued, we refuse to air any of their programming.”
The statement continued, accusing ABC of overstepping its role as a broadcaster. “Fact-checking in the middle of a debate? Unacceptable. Viewers have the right to hear both candidates speak uninterrupted, regardless of whether what they’re saying is based in reality.”
The blackout sent shockwaves across the media landscape. Suddenly, ABC’s programming—everything from Shark Tank to The View—was off the air for millions of homes across the country. And viewers? Well, they were not happy.
“Where’s Dancing with the Stars?!” tweeted one irate fan. “I didn’t tune in for a media showdown. I just want to see people in sequins doing the cha-cha!”
Others, however, seemed more intrigued by NBC’s bold stance. “Finally, someone’s standing up for America,” wrote a supporter of the blackout. “ABC has gone too far with their fact-checking crusade. If Trump wants to say dogs are being eaten in Ohio, that’s his right!”
Even politicians chimed in, with some calling for a full investigation into ABC’s debate coverage. “This is about more than a media blackout,” said one senator on X (formerly Twitter). “This is about the First Amendment. What ABC did during that debate was censorship, plain and simple.”
