Get ready for some late-night drama! The Center for American Rights, a conservative advocacy group, has filed a formal complaint with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) against ABC's Jimmy Kimmel Live! The group accuses Jimmy Kimmel of using his show to push Democratic politics without disclosing his personal connections to political campaigns and candidates.
According to the 12-page complaint, Kimmel has hosted Democratic politicians on his show after donating to their campaigns or fundraising for them. The group points to a 2024 fundraiser headlined by Kimmel, featuring Joe Biden and Barack Obama, followed by Vice President Kamala Harris's appearance on his show soon after.
Moreover, Kimmel allegedly sent out fundraising appeals for the Harris–Walz ticket while continuing to host both Harris and her running mate. The complaint also highlights Kimmel's past donations to various Democratic figures, all of whom later appeared as guests.
The Center argues that these activities breach the FCC's conflict-of-interest policies, suggesting viewers should be informed about "by whom they are being persuaded." They criticize ABC for only applying donation restrictions to its news division, not to entertainment hosts like Kimmel.
The watchdog group also notes that Kimmel's wife and co-head writer, Molly McNearney, along with other senior staffers, have made numerous political donations, raising further conflict concerns.
The complaint calls for an FCC investigation and suggests potential consequences such as admonition or probationary license renewal for KABC, the Los Angeles ABC affiliate airing Kimmel's show. As Kimmel returns from his summer break, the complaint coincides with his fresh batch of anti-Trump jokes.
While ABC has yet to comment, the FCC has not responded either. For those interested, the complete filing is available for public viewing.
Source: 800 Pound Gorilla Media (USA)