The Walt Disney Company appeared before a federal judge in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday to seek an injunction blocking the Federal Communications Commission's accelerated review of licenses for its eight ABC television stations.

Disney attorney Beth Wilkinson argued that the agency's action amounts to retaliation for content critical of President Trump and his administration. She told U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan that the review has already chilled editorial decisions at ABC, including decisions on political interviews and programming.

The FCC ordered the early license renewals in April, one day after President Trump and first lady Melania Trump publicly called for ABC to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. The order cited an ongoing investigation into Disney's diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at its stations. No ABC licenses were scheduled for renewal until 2028.

Disney maintains that the timing and scope of the review violate First Amendment protections. The company filed suit in August, claiming the FCC has pressured ABC to alter guest bookings and coverage to avoid license challenges.

Kimmel has drawn repeated criticism from the White House. In April he joked during a segment that Melania Trump had "the glow like an expectant widow." Earlier incidents include comments about the 2025 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk that led to a brief suspension of his show.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has defended the reviews as part of enforcement against potential discrimination violations. The agency has not revoked a broadcast license in more than four decades, and any final action would require lengthy administrative proceedings.

The hearing marks the latest escalation in tensions between the Trump administration and Disney-owned ABC. Disney's new leadership has signaled willingness to litigate rather than comply with prior pressure tactics that previously prompted temporary changes at the network.