Jim Boulet, Jr., over at The American Thinker, has an article about a new stealth FCC policy called “Localism” which was enacted this year under the Bush administration watch. The rule clarifies a long-standing FCC regulation that broadcasters must “serve the local interest.” As Jim points out, this rule could be used in the same fashion as the fairness doctrine, to rid the airwaves of nationally-syndicated talk radio. The incoming FCC commissioner also shares the belief in an expanded role for “localization”, as does Barack Obama. We must remain vigilant to ensure that our first amendment rights are not ripped away from us.
