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FCC Chairman Warns Against Broadcasting Fake Polls Amid Trump's Declining Popularity

FCC Chairman Warns Against Broadcasting Fake Polls Amid Trump's Declining Popularity

First seen 23 Oct 2026, 01:11 UTC • •

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ThreatCluster AI
ThreatCluster •October 23, 2026 at 08:12 UTC
  • •FCC Chairman Brendan Carr warned broadcasters against airing fake polls.
  • •Trump's approval ratings have significantly declined, currently at 36%.
  • •Wedgewood Polls admitted to fabricating polling results used by various outlets.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr issued a warning to broadcasters about airing 'fake polls' and 'suppression polls' that he claims distort the electoral process. He stated that many journalists have been sharing these polls without acknowledging their lack of scientific validity. Carr emphasized that broadcasters are prohibited from engaging in news distortion under their federal licenses. The warning comes as President Trump's approval ratings have dropped significantly, with a recent New York Times/Siena University poll showing him at 36%, down from 43% a year ago. Carr did not provide specific examples of the polls in question but highlighted a recent admission from Wedgewood Polls, which acknowledged fabricating results. The FCC's stance aims to ensure that the media reports news fairly and accurately, especially during the election season.

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Timeline

2026-10-21
FCC Chairman issues warning to broadcasters
Brendan Carr cautioned against airing fake polls that distort electoral processes, emphasizing journalistic ethics.
Gizmodo
2026-10-22
Wedgewood Polls admits to fabricating results
Wedgewood Polls acknowledged that it had fabricated polling data, which was used by multiple media outlets.
Deadline

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Common questions

What specific actions can broadcasters take?
Broadcasters are advised to avoid airing polls that lack scientific validity and to provide context when necessary.
How has Trump's approval rating changed?
Trump's approval rating has dropped from 43% to 36% over the past year, according to recent polls.
What was Wedgewood Polls' statement about their data?
Wedgewood Polls stated that their fabricated results were not intended to mislead but rather to serve as a wake-up call.