Judge blocks Nexstar-Tenga merger

A federal judge blocked the $6 billion merger between Nexstar Media Group and Tegna Inc., pausing the deal until an antitrust lawsuit concludes. 

Chief Judge Troy L. Nunley ruled that challengers, including DirecTV and eight state attorneys general, are likely to succeed in court.

The order requires Nexstar to keep Tegna as a separate, independently managed competitor starting April 21. The lawsuit argues the merger could raise consumer prices and weaken local journalism. Nexstar defended the deal as pro-competition and said it will appeal.

The merger had cleared regulatory hurdles, including those from the Federal Communications Commission. It would expand Nexstar’s reach to roughly 80% of US households. 

Supporters, including President Donald Trump, say the deal boosts competition, while critics warn it concentrates media power.