Trump Backs Nexstar–Tegna Merger Amid Shifting U.S. Media Landscape

U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly endorsed a proposed merger between Nexstar Media Group and Tegna, signaling renewed political attention on the future of local television broadcasting. In a post shared Saturday on his Truth Social platform, Trump urged regulators to approve the deal, framing it as a way to strengthen local broadcasters against what he called the “Fake News National TV Networks.”

The proposed transaction, first announced last year, would see Nexstar acquire Tegna for approximately $3.54 billion. If completed, the deal would create the largest regional television station operator in the United States, significantly expanding Nexstar’s footprint in local media markets. Nexstar already owns or operates more than 200 television stations nationwide and manages well-known brands such as The CW and NewsNation. Tegna, considered a smaller rival, operates 64 stations and owns digital networks including True Crime Network and Quest.

Supporters of the Nexstar–Tegna merger argue that consolidation could help local media companies better withstand industry-wide challenges. Traditional television broadcasters are facing declining advertising revenue and shrinking subscriber bases as viewers increasingly turn to streaming services for news and entertainment. A combined Nexstar-Tegna entity would likely gain greater leverage in negotiations with advertisers and pay-TV distributors, potentially stabilizing revenues in a rapidly changing media environment.

Trump’s endorsement, however, marks a notable shift in tone compared to his stance late last year. In November, he criticized efforts to relax federal limits on local television station ownership, a regulatory change that would be required for the Nexstar acquisition of Tegna to move forward. The current ownership cap has long been a point of debate in U.S. media policy, with critics warning that loosening the rules could reduce viewpoint diversity, while proponents say it is necessary for local broadcasters to remain competitive.

As regulators review the proposed merger, Trump’s comments add another layer to the ongoing discussion about media consolidation, competition, and the future of local journalism in the United States.