Judge Nunley Blocks Nexstar-Tegna Merger, Orders Cease of Integration
Key Takeaways
- Federal judge halted Nexstar-Tegna integration.
- The deal would create one of the largest U.S. TV groups with hundreds of stations.
- The FCC had previously approved the merger before the court halted it.
Merger Halted by TRO
A federal judge issued a 14-day temporary restraining order blocking the Nexstar-Tegna merger.
“Although the Trump administration approved Nexstar Media Group’s $6”
Judge Nunley wrote the merger is presumed likely to violate antitrust laws.
DirecTV's lawsuit claimed the merger would irreparably drive up consumer costs and reduce competition.
Judge Cites Antitrust Concerns
Nunley agreed that immediate integration could eliminate competition and result in layoffs.
A coalition of advocacy groups sued the FCC to reverse its approval.
The FCC granted the merger using a waiver to exceed the 39% ownership cap.
Share Price Drops 13%
Nexstar's stock fell 13% after the ruling.
“Two prominent organizations, the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) and the Zionist Organization of America (ZOA), have filed amicus curiae briefs supporting Newsmax and other petitioners seeking to block the FCC's approval of Nexstar's acquisition of TEGNA broadcast stations”
Nearly $850 million in market value was erased.
A hearing is scheduled for April 7.
Legal Challenges Mount
State attorneys general are also challenging the merger.
The ruling puts the future of the largest local TV operator in doubt.
More on Business
Volkswagen Invests Up To $5 Billion In Rivian, Forms Joint Venture For EV Software
14 sources compared
Netflix Raises Prices in U.S. and France, Adds Non‑Household Member Fees
24 sources compared
Revolut reports record $2.3 billion pretax profit for 2025
13 sources compared
OnlyFans owner Leonid Radvinsky dies of cancer at 43
42 sources compared