The automotive industry is undergoing significant changes, with a focus on advanced technology and infotainment systems. However, a campaign led by bipartisan lawmakers is aiming to protect AM radio as an essential feature in all new vehicles.
On March 11, 2024, discussions in Bow, N.H., highlighted the importance of AM radios in cars. Despite the decline of AM broadcast radio due to satellite radio and podcasts, lawmakers argue for preserving AM dial access, particularly in rural areas. They believe it is crucial for public safety, providing reliable communication during emergencies.
President Trump has been attentive to free speech issues, recently addressing biases in news aggregators and enforcing equal-time rules. He is also advocating to retain AM radio in cars. Speaking to Hugh Hewitt, Trump emphasized the significance of this issue and his administration’s intention to act.
AM radio serves millions with news, opinions, and diverse viewpoints unavailable elsewhere. The ‘Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show’ exemplifies its vast reach across the country. Beyond talk radio, AM is vital for farmers tracking weather, crop prices, and alerts. It’s also pivotal for civil rights organizations, churches, and emergency management professionals who rely on it for crucial information during extreme weather conditions.
Automakers, however, are removing AM radio from new vehicles, replacing it with closed infotainment systems. These systems track, collect data, and generate revenue for manufacturers, posing privacy concerns. A WIRED analysis of data-collection practices of popular cars showed that modern vehicles can generate 25 gigabytes of data per hour, often unbeknownst to consumers.
If consumers are aware and have alternative choices, infotainment systems are acceptable. But if automakers eliminate choices, forcing consumers into monitored platforms, it threatens free speech, privacy, and public safety.
A coalition led by former Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody and 11 attorneys general is advocating for AM radio protection, recognizing its pivotal role in crisis communication. AM signals remain reliable during outages of other communication devices.
Sens. Ted Cruz and Ed Markey introduced the AM Radio for Every Vehicle Act, a bipartisan bill requiring AM radio in new cars. Garnering strong support in both houses of Congress, it has passed relevant committees, awaiting a vote.
Clay Travis, co-host of ‘The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show,’ is prominently involved, highlighting the importance of retaining AM radio for free speech and public safety.
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