FCC Seeks Comment On Battle With ABC

The Federal Communications Commission on Friday sought public comments about whether ABC’s “The View” is subject to the so-called “equal time” rule.

That rule broadly says broadcasters that give free air time to “legally qualified” candidates must also offer their rivals an opportunity for free air time.

But the rule has built-in exceptions for “bona fide” newscasts, interviews and documentaries.

Since at least 1984, the FCC has said talk shows — including “The Phil Donahue Show,” “The Jerry Springer Show,” “The Howard Stern Show” and “The Tonight Show With Jay Leno” — qualify for the exemption.