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In a sweeping decision that could reshape the media landscape, the Nexstar Tegna $6.2B merger has received approval from the Federal Communications Commission, paving the way for the creation of the largest local television station operator in the United States.

The approval came Thursday, even as a coalition of attorneys general from eight states—including California and New York—filed a lawsuit seeking to block the deal, arguing it violates federal antitrust laws.

Rule Waived to Allow Expanded Reach

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr said the agency waived a long-standing rule that prevents a single broadcaster from reaching more than 39% of U.S. households. The combined Nexstar Media Group and Tegna Inc. entity is expected to reach at least 60%.

Carr defended the move, stating the waiver aligns with the FCC’s authority and supports competition, localism, and diversity within the media sector.

Justice Department Approval Secured

Nexstar confirmed it has also obtained regulatory clearance from the U.S. Department of Justice, further solidifying the deal’s path forward. The DOJ did not immediately comment on the approval.

Chief Executive Perry Sook described the merger as critical to sustaining local journalism, calling the combined company a “stronger, more dynamic enterprise.”

He also credited the administration of Donald Trump, along with FCC leadership, for recognizing the shifting dynamics of the media industry and enabling the transaction to proceed.

Criticism Over Transparency and Impact

Not everyone at the FCC agreed. Commissioner Anna M. Gomez, the agency’s lone Democrat, sharply criticized the approval process, describing it as opaque and lacking accountability.

“The FCC has once again chosen bureaucratic cover over public accountability,” Gomez said, arguing the merger was approved without a full Commission vote or transparent review.

A Transformative Deal for Media Landscape

Originally announced in August, the merger reflects broader changes in the media industry, where traditional broadcasters are grappling with a fragmented and rapidly evolving marketplace.

Sook previously said deregulation has given station owners a better chance to compete against digital platforms and streaming giants—forces that have steadily eroded traditional TV audiences.

Legal Battle Still Looms

Despite regulatory green lights, the lawsuit filed by state attorneys general casts a shadow over the deal’s future. The legal challenge could determine whether the merger proceeds smoothly or faces further hurdles in court.

As the Nexstar Tegna $6.2B merger moves forward, it stands as both a bold consolidation play and a lightning rod for debate—where the promise of stronger local journalism collides with fears of reduced competition and concentrated media power.