WASHINGTON, DC - Senator Kerry sent a letter to Kevin Martin, Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission today, asking him to investigate an Alabama television station that “blacked out” during a controversial segment of 60 Minutes. Allegations have been raised that the blackout, which the station blames on “technical difficulties”, was an example of censorship.

“The airwaves belong to the American people, and they have a right to know whether this blackout was the result of technical difficulties, or whether it was an act of censorship,” said Sen. John Kerry. “I think a full and thorough investigation by the FCC is owed to the public, especially those in Alabama who, for whatever reason, tuned in to watch 60 Minutes and didn't get a chance to evaluate the fairness of this story on their own that night.”

March 5, 2008

The Honorable Kevin J. Martin
Chairman
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street SW
Washington, DC 20554

Dear Chairman Martin:

According to recent press reports, on Sunday, February 24th, a segment of “60 Minutes” addressing the conviction of former Alabama Governor Don Siegelman failed to air on WHNT-TV in Huntsville, Alabama. Instead of the regularly scheduled segment, viewers were subjected to several minutes of dead air. Following the completion of the segment, the station resumed its broadcast of “60 Minutes” without further incident.

Although the station reportedly blamed the black out on a technical malfunction, questions have been raised as to whether the nature of the content played a role.

I understand that you will be looking into the details of this incident, including the reason for the station’s failure to broadcast this segment. Upon the completion of your inquiry, I ask that you share your findings and conclusions with interested members of the congressional committees of jurisdiction, so that we will know that a complete inquiry has been conducted.

It is a fundamental responsibility of the Federal Communications Commission to ensure that broadcasters fulfill their duties as trustees of the public airwaves. As a member of the Senate Commerce Committee, I will be monitoring this situation closely, and I look forward to the resolution of your inquiry.

Cc: The Honorable Michael J. Copps, FCC Commissioner
The Honorable Jonathan S. Adelstein, FCC Commissioner
The Honorable Deborah T. Tate, FCC Commissioner
The Honorable Robert M. McDowell, FCC Commissioner

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