A federal judge in Washington blocked the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) from carrying out an investigation into Media Matters for America, a left-leaning media watchdog group. The judge ruled that the agency was likely violating the organization’s First Amendment rights.
The decision comes after the FTC issued investigative demands to Media Matters, sparking widespread criticism and support among commenters who view it as an attempt to suppress free speech. The case has been seen as a victory for free speech advocates, with many expressing relief that the probe is being blocked.
The FTC had reportedly launched the investigation into Media Matters over concerns about the group’s advertising practices. However, the federal judge’s ruling suggests that the agency’s actions may have crossed into partisan territory, and that the organization’s protected status as a non-profit entity should be taken into account when conducting investigations.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2025/08/15/media-matters-ftc-injunction