NBC Will Allow Freedom's Watch to Thank Our Troops

I‘ve not blogged about the controversy before, but it’s worth noting NBC’s rejection of several non-controversial ads from the group Freedom’s Watch, and their subsequent backpedaling and decision to air them. First, here’s one of the ads that NBC apparently found so provocative:

NBC initially rejected the ad because it references Freedom’s Watch’s website–the content of which was deemed too controversial. NBC had previously rejected commercials from Freedom’s Watch in support of the war. When NBC rejected the new round of ads, the president and CEO of Freedom’s Watch–Brad Blakeman–wrote the network, seeking an explanation:

It is deeply troubling that the Networks appear to be rejecting an effort to air messages that thank our troops for their sacrifice and, in so doing, remind Americans of the sacrifices made by them this Holiday season. An effort to thank our troops should not be silenced by national broadcast and cable networks. Your denial begs the question of whether the Networks disagree with FW and, due to the level of your disagreement, you would prefer to censor FW’s effort to thank our troops and encourage an outpouring of support from the American people for them. A detailed explanation of your censorship appears to be very necessary.

For whatever the reason, NBC relented some hours later. Freedom’s Watch is likely to play an increasingly important part in the public policy and political debate in years ahead (including more advocacy for the war on terror). You can bookmark their blog here.

NBC Will Allow Freedom’s Watch to Thank Our Troops

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