Five additional states—Indiana, Kansas, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Vermont—have joined a bipartisan antitrust lawsuit seeking to block Nexstar Media Group’s $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna Inc. The move brings the total number of plaintiff states to 13, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, and Virginia. The lawsuit, led by California Attorney General Rob Bonta, argues the merger would create the nation’s largest broadcast station group, raising concerns about market consolidation and potential job losses in local newsrooms.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
U.S. District Judge Troy Nunley issued a preliminary injunction on April 18, halting the merger while the legal case proceeds. Despite the court order, Nexstar completed the deal, prompting the expanded legal challenge. The merger would combine 265 television stations, significantly increasing Nexstar’s market share from its current 164 stations.
Deeper Dive & Context
Legal and Market Concerns
The attorneys general argue the merger would reduce competition, leading to higher advertising costs and potential layoffs in local newsrooms. Bonta emphasized the bipartisan nature of the effort, stating antitrust enforcement is essential for protecting consumers and workers. The lawsuit highlights concerns about Nexstar owning multiple network affiliates in the same markets, such as San Diego and Sacramento.
Industry and Political Reactions
Nexstar has not publicly commented on the expanded lawsuit. The bipartisan coalition underscores the broad opposition to the deal, with both Democratic and Republican-led states participating. The legal battle is expected to focus on whether the merger violates antitrust laws by stifling competition and harming consumers.