Laura Loomer Critiques Newsmax CEO Over Merger Opposition
Laura Loomer, known for her right-wing views, has publicly criticized Chris Ruddy, the CEO of Newsmax and an ally of Trump, labeling him a “selfish leftist” for his outspoken opposition to the merger between Nexstar Media and Tegna.
Ruddy has been active in Congress, trying to prevent the merger, which hinges on the federal government eliminating a regulation that restricts any single company from owning local stations broadcasting to more than 39% of U.S. households. This puts him at odds with FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, also a Trump supporter, who aims to abolish that 39% threshold.
In a pointed post on X, Loomer called attention to Ruddy’s actions, stressing that he demonstrates selfishness within the conservative movement.
The proposed $6.2 billion merger would establish a significant local television entity, combining 265 stations across 44 states.
This proposal caught the public’s eye earlier this fall when Carr threatened to take action against ABC due to comments made by Jimmy Kimmel regarding the assassination of Charlie Kirk. Nexstar reacted by halting Kimmel’s ability to speak, leading to accusations that he was merely trying to flatter Kirk to win FCC approval for the merger.
Loomer argued that Ruddy’s resistance only serves to strengthen the left and its media allies, claiming they could still influence American programming regardless of political leadership. She added that he is misleading Trump and undermining the MAGA movement with deceptive assertions.
In another recent post, Loomer shared a document outlining what she characterized as Ruddy’s “long history” of financial ties to the Clinton Foundation, connections to Qatar, and his critical public statements against Trump, including assertions that Trump should refrain from another presidential run in 2024.
Ruddy’s response came through a retweet by Newsmax contributor Brian Reeve, noting that the network’s executives have collectively donated over $2 million to political candidates over two decades, with 99% of that supporting Republican candidates.
Reeve questioned Loomer’s credentials, asking why she would seek a position at Newsmax if she viewed Ruddy so negatively, and emphasized that the ongoing discord among Republicans needs to cease to maintain control of the House in 2026.
As of midweek, Ruddy had not addressed Loomer’s remarks directly. The Post attempted to reach him for further comment.
Fox Television, which runs numerous local stations nationwide, advocates for removing the 39% cap. Notably, Fox shares ownership with News Corp., which publishes the Post. Newsmax, along with Ruddy, is currently engaged in legal action against Fox News, alleging it maintains an illegal monopoly and stifles conservative competition.
Supporters of eliminating the cap argue that it would empower local TV stations to better compete against larger entities and tech companies, enabling them to resist directives from corporations like Disney.
Ruddy contends that removing the cap would disproportionately empower “left-wing broadcast networks.”
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump echoed Ruddy’s perspective, expressing dissatisfaction at the idea that lifting the cap could enable liberal networks to gain market share.
Loomer defended Nexstar, asserting it could be relied upon to grow its market presence while continuing to support Trump and the Republican Party, pointing to contributions made by Nexstar’s chairman.
She also commented on the competitive landscape, noting Disney’s control over premier NFL and college football broadcasts, which could pose challenges for local broadcasters during disputes.
Loomer urged the FCC to remain resolute against pressures from those like Ruddy, arguing for the empowerment of conservative local stations to counteract liberal media influence.
