Wisconsin Recall Spurs Question of “Equal Time” on Milwaukee News/Talk Outlets

With the national political season really heating up now that Mitt Romney has secured sufficient votes to win the Republican nomination for president, a Milwaukee talk radio controversy may have far-reaching implications into the media’s role in the upcoming elections at all levels around the country. Sue Wilson of the organization Media Action Center has complained to the FCC that five conservative local talk hosts on Milwaukee news/talk stations WISN (Clear Channel) and WTMJ (Journal Broadcasting) have been providing time to and actively promoting Republican candidates, including recruiting volunteers for Republican Governor Scott Walker. The crux of the complaint is that Section 315 (a) of the Communications Act of 1934 (47 USC Section 315) sometimes, referred to as the “Zapple Doctrine,” requires that in the 60 days prior to an election if broadcasters provide free airtime to a candidate, it must offer free time to other candidates. This has been interpreted to be expanded to apply to supporters of candidates, as well.