The Press: To Catch a Falling Star

Any day now, the Federal Communications Commission will make a long-awaited ruling that could turn Washington, D.C., into a one-newspaper town. The agency is expected to decide whether or not Texas Multimillionaire Joe L. Allbritton, who bought a controlling interest in the stuffy, money-losing Washington Star (circ. 370,000) last fall, can also acquire the parent company's six moneymaking radio and television stations as well. The FCC has a rule against perpetuating such local monopolies when ownership changes hands, but Allbritton has pleaded for a waiver, saying that he needs profits from the...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!