A federal judge has issued a preliminary injunction blocking Nexstar Media Group’s $6.2 billion acquisition of Tegna, citing antitrust concerns about reduced competition in the local television market, according to Deadline and Variety. The decision was handed down by U.S. District Judge Troy Nunley in Sacramento, who ordered Nexstar to halt all integration plans related to the merger.
Judge Nunley ruled that the merger would likely violate antitrust laws by creating a monopoly, with the case originating from a lawsuit filed by DirecTV, which argued the deal would harm competition, as reported by Variety. The 52-page decision highlighted concerns over media consolidation and the potential impact on viewers and advertisers.
Nexstar has announced it plans to appeal the ruling, rejecting the decision as unjust, Deadline notes. The company pointed out that the deal had previously received approval under the Trump administration and continues to defend the merger's benefits. Meanwhile, the New York Attorney General Letitia James remains actively involved in opposing the transaction.
The case remains ongoing, with regulatory scrutiny intensifying on large media mergers amid broader antitrust enforcement efforts. The outcome will be closely watched by the broadcasting industry, as it could set precedents for future consolidation attempts involving local TV station groups.
Tegna
Nexstar Media, Inc.
Troy Nunley
Aaron Judge
