FCC Demands CBS Turn Over ’60 MINUTES’ Interview Amid Trump Lawsuit
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has issued a letter to CBS Corporation demanding that the network turn over a November 8, 2019 “60 MINUTES” interview with Yusaku Komiyama, a Japanese businessman who has filed a $10 million libel lawsuit against former President Donald Trump.
The demand comes after Komiyama, the CEO of Kowa Company, Ltd., claimed that CBS and its Journalists, Lesley Stahl and Anna Maria Hart, published false and defamatory statements about him in the segment, which focused on Trump’s business dealings in Japan.
According to the lawsuit, the segment implicated Trump in questionable business practices, and Komiyama claims he was defamed as a key player in the alleged scheme.
The FCC’s letter, dated May 21, says the agency has launched an investigation into whether the segment “aired in violation of the Commission’s broadcast standards” and whether the network failed to provide adequate disclosure of its affiliation with Trump’s organization.
The letter also demands that CBS produce the raw footage of the interview, the script, and any other relevant documents related to the production of the “60 MINUTES” segment within 30 days.
It is unclear what specific allegations the FCC is investigating, but the agency has the power to fine CBS and its affiliates up to $250,000 for each day of non-compliance.
A CBS spokesperson declined to comment, citing pending litigation. The network has denied the accusations, saying that the segment was based on extensive research and reporting and that it has the right to air it.
