The Democrats have taken control of the House. There are two Senate races that are still undecided (as I understand it - the Virginia race is a “done deal” with a Democratic win, although the final results may not come out until December). If the Democrats can pick up two more Senate seats, they will obviously control the House and the Senate. Now imagine the 2008 election – and a possible Democratic win… a Democratic President, and a House/Senate controlled by Democrats.
What does all of this mean for broadcasters? If the Democrats run the show – what kind of regulation changes might broadcasters experience? How will Democrats handle issues of indecency, fairness, and programming?
Are you ready for CDA III?
Look into your crystal ball… how will it unfold between 2007 and 2012?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
7 comments:
This is not exactly going out on a limb, but I'll predict stronger support for must-carry for multiple streams, and more money for DTV converter boxes...so that people can continue to use their old analog sets after the 2009 deadline.
I don't know if there will be very many extreme changes. I think things will be focused on digital television, corporate vs. independent company rights, and internet control.
I have a feeling that the digital television boom will be somewhat pushed back.
Like prof. Ebersol said, there will be more focus on people's abilities to use old analog sets and analog equipment.
However, I would hate to see progress hindered because of a few dollars on the consumer's part. We have the technology, why wait? Televisions are out, receivers are out, equipment is out...we can handle the change over, what’s a few hundred dollars on a new T.V.? Services are offering free upgrades on equipment and programming.
Must-carry exclusivity...I would wonder about that, actually I'm more entertained by prof. Ebersole's comment than anything.
Dane K.
Indecency, fairness, and programming ..I believe that it will all remain the same..with a democratic house or not..!! However Broadcasters...should be ready ...! A positive change in Radio is ahead..! Definately... gotta agree with Prof.. Ebersole..I see more money for DTV..and..obviuosly..a more independent outlook for broadcasting verse..these corporate thugs..!!
Anthony Casias
I think that the concentration will be on hot topics first. I think a lot about the war will be decided. But in the context of this converstation, media is a hot topic. I think there will be tigher regulation on media ownership, puting local media back in the communities hands. We will also see a change as far as what is decent/indecent on tv. More shows will push it to the edge and challenge what society will accept on their broadcast tv. TV will go liberal for all of the people.
Katherine England
As for the future of public broadcasters I think there will be two years, at least, of less worry. For the last few years public broadcasters have been on the edge of their seats wondering if funding will be cut partially or totally. Maybe public broadcasters can now get out of panic mode and concentrate on making pubic television and radio more important to the viewer/listener. It’s a tall order, what with thousands of satellite stations out there to compete with.
Well even with the Democratics “running the show”, I don’t believe it will have a dramatic affect on broadcasting. Because it is not whether or not Democrats are controlling the House but more so if the person in charge of the network has Democratic views. Even with so many Democrats in the house if the man in charge of the network is Republic than the values of the network wont be affected by who is running the House. As far as fairness, indecency and programming goes the general rules for media and news are still going to be in place regardless of who is running the House, democrats or republics.
Post a Comment