President Donald Trump announced his intention to sign an executive order designed to prevent other football games from competing with the annual Army-Navy matchup. Trump stated the goal is to preserve the tradition of the game.
Order Details
The proposed executive order would establish an exclusive four-hour broadcast window for the Army-Navy game on the second Saturday in December. This initiative aims to ensure the event is not overshadowed by commercial postseason games or other college playoff competitions.
Broadcast Implications
CBS, which holds exclusive broadcast rights to the Army-Navy Game until 2038, would potentially benefit from this order. Paramount Skydance-owned CBS is led by CEO David Ellison, whose father, Larry Ellison, has connections to Trump's inner circle.
Enforcement Concerns
The enforceability of such an executive order remains uncertain. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulates broadcast television but does not oversee cable or streaming services. Additionally, NFL broadcasts operate under antitrust laws established by Congress.
Presidential Involvement
This proposed action follows previous instances of Trump engaging with the broadcasting and media landscape, including during his presidency regarding television licensing and major media industry agreements. Trump attended the most recent Army-Navy game in Baltimore, which occurred on the same day as another college football bowl game.