Nexstar Claims Its $6.2 Billion Deal for Tegna Has ‘Closed’ After DOJ, FCC Approvals — After Eight States, DirecTV Sued to Block It
Nexstar Media Group has successfully completed its acquisition of Tegna in a $6.2 billion deal after receiving approval from the FCC and the Department of Justice. The merger will make Nexstar the largest TV station group in the United States, with nearly 260 full-power stations affiliated with major networks like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC. Despite this, the combined company will own less than 15% of all local TV stations in the country, reaching approximately 80% of U.S. TV households.
The approval of the deal came after facing opposition from eight state attorneys general and DirecTV, who filed lawsuits to block the takeover, citing concerns about increased prices for consumers and potential harm to the production of local news. However, the FCC granted Nexstar and Tegna a waiver of its ownership-cap rule to move forward with the acquisition. Nexstar has committed to divesting six stations across different markets and ensuring affordability and localism as part of the deal.
Perry Sook, the founder, chairman, and CEO of Nexstar, expressed gratitude to President Donald Trump and FCC chairman Brendan Carr for enabling the transaction to proceed. He emphasized the importance of the merger in sustaining strong local journalism and enhancing the company’s capabilities to deliver exceptional programming. Carr also praised the FCC’s decision, stating that it ensures broadcasters have the resources to continue investing in their local news operations.
The FCC accepted applications for the transfer of control of certain TV stations from Tegna to Nexstar in December 2025. The two companies operated in 35 designated market areas, and the combined entity would operate 265 full-power television stations in 44 states and the District of Columbia. Nexstar announced its agreement to acquire Tegna in August 2025, leading to the recent completion of the deal.
Despite facing legal challenges, Nexstar remains committed to providing quality programming and local news to communities across the country. The merger with Tegna will strengthen Nexstar’s position in the media landscape and allow for continued investment in journalism and broadcasting. The company looks forward to leveraging its enhanced assets, capabilities, and talent to deliver impactful content to viewers nationwide.
