The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has taken notice of NBC affiliates posting notices in their public inspection files about the free airtime provided to Kamala Harris for her cameo on Saturday Night Live. The network’s Washington, D.C. affiliate, WRC-TV, noted that Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), who is running for reelection, also appeared on the show.
FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr accused SNL of trying to evade the FCC’s Equal Time Rule, which requires broadcasters to offer comparable time to opposing candidates. However, a network source has stated that NBC will comply with all regulatory obligations.
The rule does not require networks to seek out opposing campaigns to offer time; rather, rival candidates must request it. The show has featured presidential nominees in past cycles, including John McCain’s cameo just three days before the 2008 election.
Reed Hundt, a former FCC chairman, disagreed with Carr’s assessment, stating that he is “clearly and blatantly trying to help the Trump campaign.” Others have pointed out that the equal time rule can be applied differently depending on the context. A spokesperson for Donald Trump’s campaign did not respond to a request as to whether his campaign has or will make a request.
It’s worth noting that stations do not have to give opposing candidates identical time; they only need to provide comparable time and placement. The FCC rules are clear, but it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold.
Source: https://deadline.com/2024/11/fcc-kamala-harris-saturday-night-live-equal-time-rule-1236165780