PHOENIX — The upcoming elections and increasing prominence of campaign advertising has a lot of viewers asking why 12News allows controversial or inflammatory ads to air.
The answer:
We don't have a choice.
Federal law requires broadcasters to accept candidates' political ads regardless of the content. Stations are not allowed to reject or censor them.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) can revoke any station license for failing to allow a legally qualified candidate to purchase ad space.
Broadcasters are also not allowed to charge more for political ads.
"The law is pretty clear that a qualified candidate that is on a ballot or can otherwise show they are a bonafide candidate for any political ad has a right to air an ad," said Gregg Leslie ASU professor and executive director of the First Amendment Clinic.
The FCC regulates interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and U.S. territories, according to its website. The commission is the federal agency responsible for implementing and enforcing America’s communications law and regulations.
Arizona elections
In addition to the presidential election happening in November, several other elections are happening in Arizona at the same time. Here are the upcoming dates to watch out for:
- Oct. 7: Last day to register to vote
- Oct. 9: Early voting begins
- Nov. 1: Last day to vote early in person
- Nov. 5: General election day
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ARIZONA POLITICS
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