FCC Chair Questions Google Over Alleged Discrimination Against Faith-Based Programming on YouTube TV

The chair of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Brendan Carr, has raised concerns that YouTube TV may be discriminating against programming with faith-based content. Carr conveyed these concerns in a letter addressed to Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google, and Neal Mohan, CEO of YouTube. He expressed worries about complaints received from media companies, notably from Great American Media, which have alleged bias in the way YouTube TV selects channels to include on their platform.

Carr emphasized the broader context, suggesting that these reported discriminatory practices occur at a moment where censorship is increasingly surrounding public debate and dialogue in America. While acknowledging that the FCC's authority currently has limited reach concerning virtual multichannel distributors like YouTube TV, Carr emphasized that a review is underway to consider whether regulatory oversight should be expanded.

In his communication, Chairman Carr specifically referenced Great American Media's grievance. According to the complaint, their channel, Great American Family—which asserts itself as one of cable TV's fastest-growing networks—is purposely not offered on YouTube TV's platform despite being broadly available on other subscription and streaming providers.

Moreover, Carr highlighted debates around Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, underscoring how Google benefits from legal protections that shield online platforms from responsibility for user-generated content. He suggested reevaluating or limiting such protections amid ongoing concerns about viewpoint discrimination.

Carr asked the Google executives for a detailed explanation regarding the decision-making processes behind selecting networks that appear on YouTube TV, especially to understand any possible practices of viewpoint-based discrimination.

Responding to the FCC Chairman's inquiries, a YouTube spokesperson clarified their position, noting their willingness to meet and discuss YouTube TV's operational practices. The spokesperson emphasized that programming choices for YouTube TV rely primarily on business considerations, including user preferences, operating expenses, and financial terms, firmly dismissing claims of policies against religious content.

Meanwhile, Great American Media maintains a notable presence on YouTube platforms, specifically through channels such as Pure Flix and Great American Family. Separately, Google faces additional scrutiny as Rep. Jim Jordan of Ohio recently subpoenaed the company, questioning whether YouTube had removed certain videos at the Biden administration’s behest.