A U.S. judge has extended a temporary order freezing the $3.54 billion acquisition of Nexstar Media Group ($NXST) by Tegna ($TGNA) for another week as the court weighs a potential preliminary injunction in an antitrust case brought by DirecTV and multiple states.
- U.S. District Judge Troy Nunley ordered Tegna to remain a separate, independently managed business during the review.
- The ruling follows a March 27 order after DirecTV sued, arguing the deal would harm competition and increase consumer costs.
- The companies completed the deal on March 19 after approval from the Department of Justice and FCC.
- The combined company would reach about 80% of U.S. households, becoming the largest broadcast station group.
- Eight states, led by California and New York, are seeking to block the merger over concerns including higher cable bills and reduced local news competition.
- Nexstar’s lobbying disclosures show increased 2025 spending tied to telecommunications policy, media ownership rules, and regulatory oversight.
- Tegna’s lobbying activity, initiated in 2025, includes issues related to broadcast regulation and competition policy.
Relevant Companies
- Nexstar Media Group ($NXST) – Direct party to the acquisition; outcome affects integration and regulatory exposure.
- Tegna ($TGNA) – Target company; required to operate independently pending court decision.
Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more detail
