FCC Chairman Challenges Google Over Alleged Discrimination by YouTube TV

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has reached out to Google with a letter, addressing accusations of faith-based bias by YouTube TV. The controversy stems from Great American Media’s repeated and failed attempts to have its linear network, Great American Family, included on YouTube TV’s platform. In the letter sent to Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai and Google CEO Neal Mohan, Carr seeks clarity on these claims.

“Independent programmers often approach the FCC when a multichannel video programming distributor (MVPD), whether virtual or not, declines to feature their channel,” Carr noted on Friday. “But in YouTube TV’s scenario, specific concerns suggest there might be an unspoken policy against faith-based content,” he continued.

Carr pointed out a letter from Great American Media, affirming YouTube TV’s alleged effort to sideline faith-oriented, family-friendly programming. According to Great American Media, their Great American Family network is currently the second fastest-growing channel on cable television. While they have secured placements on platforms like Comcast, Cox, Hulu, FuboTV, and DirecTV Stream, YouTube TV remains elusive.

Referring to the increasing censorship by tech companies, Carr expressed, “I’m intent on discovering if YouTube TV has any practices or policies that intentionally exclude faith-based channels.” He has set a March 11 deadline for when a briefing should be scheduled.

A representative from YouTube shared with Fox News Digital that the company welcomes the chance to clarify YouTube TV’s subscriber service. They want to explain the strategic decisions based on user demand, operational costs, and financial conditions, while reaffirming that no policy exists to ban religious content.

Great American Media’s Chairman, Doug Deason, commended Carr’s letter, stating, “We appreciate Commissioner Carr’s dedication to ensuring that all perspectives, including faith-based ones, are treated equitably on major streaming services.”