The Supreme Court has sided with Republican interests for the second time in a debate over discounted television and radio advertising rates. This decision allows the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to continue reviewing a challenge to its policy without adhering to a deadline imposed by a lower court.
This unsigned order was issued on Wednesday, just under three weeks before the midterm elections set for November 3. During this period, both Republicans and Democrats are keen to connect with voters through political ads.
The court argued that the FCC would face “irreparable harm” if the lower court’s order remained. However, Justices Sonia Sotomayor and Ketanji Brown Jackson indicated they would have rejected the requests for a stay.
The key issue in this dispute is whether political party committees and joint fundraising committees are eligible for the lowest-unit advertising rates. These rates are already guaranteed by federal law to candidates in the 60 days leading up to a general election.
This story is breaking news and further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
For more information, contact Newsweek editors Anna Commander and Sam Wilson.
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