Trump said Saturday he supports Nexstar Media Group’s proposed $6.2 billion purchase of TEGNA, reversing earlier criticism as the deal awaits regulatory approval.
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump, in a post Saturday on Truth Social, said the proposed acquisition of broadcaster TEGNA by fellow television operator Nexstar Media Group would increase competition with television networks.
“Those that are opposed don’t fully understand how good the concept of this Deal is for them, but they will in the future,” Trump posted. “GET THAT DEAL DONE!”
The $6.2 billion acquisition was announced in August 2025 and remains under regulatory review.
When the deal was announced, Nexstar Chairman and CEO Perry A. Sook said in a news release, “The initiatives being pursued by the Trump administration offer local broadcasters the opportunity to expand reach, level the playing field and compete more effectively with Big Tech and legacy Big Media companies that have unchecked reach and vast financial resources.”
“Nexstar and TEGNA both share a rich heritage of commitment to journalistic excellence and technological advancements,” Mike Steib, TEGNA’s CEO, said in a release announcing the deal. “Together, we will expand news coverage to serve more communities, across more screens, and ultimately secure the future of local news for generations to come.”
In November, Trump posted that he was concerned about the proposed deal if it would allow television networks to expand.
The Senate Commerce Committee will hold a hearing Tuesday on the Federal Communications Commission’s broadcast media ownership rules.
TEGNA and Nexstar expect the acquisition to close in the second half of 2026, pending regulatory approvals.
TEGNA owns and operates this television station.
