Senator Ted Cruz criticized the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr's actions regarding Jimmy Kimmel's show, where Carr pressured ABC to suspend Kimmel following controversial comments Kimmel made about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Cruz called Carr's actions "dangerous as hell" and likened them to mafia tactics, saying it was "right out of Goodfellas." Cruz clarified that while he personally disliked Kimmel's comments and was glad Kimmel was fired, he condemned the government's involvement in silencing media voices, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent that could be used against conservatives in the future if a Democratic administration takes power. Cruz emphasized that government censorship of speech, even speech they disagree with, is harmful and ultimately bad for conservatives. He suggested that a defamation lawsuit might have been a better way to handle the situation without government interference. Despite his disagreements with Kimmel, Cruz defended the principle of free speech and opposed government pressure to silence Kimmel's show.
In response, Jimmy Kimmel, upon returning to television, expressed gratitude to Cruz and other conservatives who defended his right to free expression, even if they disagreed with his politics or comedic style. Kimmel acknowledged Cruz's stance as brave and highlighted the importance of upholding free speech despite disagreements.
