The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is urging broadcasters to ramp up patriotic programming as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary, part of an initiative championed by President Donald Trump’s Task Force 250.
On Friday, FCC Chair Brendan Carr launched the “Pledge America Campaign,” inviting television and radio networks to air content celebrating American history, civic education, and national pride.
“The White House is engaging and encouraging the entire federal government, state and local governments, the private sector, non-profit and educational institutions, and every citizen across this country to join in this historic celebration,” Carr said, according to People. “Task Force 250 invites citizens to have a renewed love of American history, experience the beauty of our country, and ignite a spirit of adventure and innovation that will raise our nation to new heights over the next 250 years.”
Carr recommended programming ideas such as starting broadcasts with the Pledge of Allegiance, featuring local history stories, highlighting National Park Service sites, and airing music from iconic American composers like John Philip Sousa, Aaron Copland, Duke Ellington, and George Gershwin.
He also encouraged daily “Today in American History” segments and partnerships with community organizations to spotlight perseverance and achievement.
Participation in the campaign is voluntary, but Carr emphasized it as a chance for broadcasters to fulfill their public interest responsibilities.
“I believe in the greatness of our country. And I look forward to broadcasters showcasing its inspiring history by taking the Pledge and fulfilling their public interest mandate to serve the needs and interests of their local communities as America’s 250th birthday celebration marches on,” he said, according to NewsNation.
The FCC’s push is part of Trump’s broader American 250 celebration, which includes high-profile events such as the “Patriot Games,” a four-day athletic competition featuring the nation’s top high school athletes—one male and one female from each state and territory—coinciding with the president’s 80th birthday.
Trump has emphasized that male and female athletes will compete in their respective categories, reflecting the administration’s commitment to fair competition.
Carr’s announcement arrives amid ongoing FCC oversight of network programming.
In September, he criticized ABC affiliates for airing “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” leading to a temporary six-day suspension of the show. He praised networks like Sinclair and Nexstar for resisting broadcasts that conflicted with public interest obligations.
More recently, the FCC issued guidance encouraging talk shows to provide equal airtime to political candidates, resulting in “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” canceling a planned interview with Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico, though the conversation was later posted online.
Talarico condemned the move, saying, “Corporate media executives are selling out the First Amendment to curry favor with corrupt politicians and a threat to any of our First Amendment rights is a threat to all our First Amendment rights.”
The Pledge America Campaign signals a renewed effort by the Trump administration and the FCC to promote patriotism across media platforms.
By encouraging stations to highlight the nation’s history, achievements, and values, the campaign positions the upcoming 250th anniversary as an opportunity for Americans to come together while holding broadcasters accountable for serving their communities.
WATCH:
