FCC chair warns broadcasters against airing fake polls

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr warned broadcasters on X to stop airing "fake polls," a move that amplifies a recurring complaint from President Trump regarding the news media. Carr asserted that media professionals are often sharing these surveys while ignoring fundamental ethical standards and failing to tell audiences that the results are not based on science, accuracy, or reality. The chairman advised broadcasters to steer clear of what he called "News Distortions" or "Broadcast Hoaxes" by refusing to air polls that breach their regulatory duties. He further urged broadcasters to provide their viewers with additional context and information about the polls they have covered. The warning comes after one small polling outfit was exposed as a hoax this week, with a similar incident having occurred in August. News outlets have reported on these hoaxes, providing the very context that Carr said is needed for viewers.