Testimony of Seth Kupchick on media ownership, presented to the FCC in Seattle, Nov. 30 2006 [transcription]

My name is Seth Kupchick. I am here because I believe the people really can influence public policy and it is our right to fight for our civil liberties. More media outlets consolidated under one corporation injures the freedom of the press granted in the First Amendment. Clearly, the more diversified the companies that own the TV stations, radio stations, and movie studios… the more likely we are to hear a variety of opinions on politics, art, and science, and the more informed and educated the body politic will be -- making for a healthier democracy.

I realize there are examples of this rule being used for individual gain as Mr. Skotdal insinuates of Mr. Blethen in today’s Seattle Times article on this event. Whether or not that is true, I don’t know; but if it is, it is the exception rather than the rule. The FCC must open the playing field up to as many contradictory viewpoints as possible because it is only through debate that our country can grow. Thank you.