Newsmax’s CEO Chris Ruddy was cordially welcomed at the Conservative Political Action Conference, where he spoke alongside CPAC head Matt Schlapp.
According to Vanity, Ruddy claimed that DirecTV’s decision to end its relationship with Newsmax and drop One America News was an attempt to “de-platform” conservatives and an act of censorship. He argued that Fox News is the last remaining conservative option, but even that is changing. Ruddy stated that DirecTV has considered bringing Newsmax back, but a new deal is not guaranteed.
Fox provided a different level of coverage at CPAC than in previous years and did not return as an event sponsor. On the other hand, Newsmax set up a media booth and played ads on the venue’s big screen between speeches.
DirecTV has stated that its relationship with Newsmax was canceled due to a common carriage dispute, not political motives. The provider has said that keeping Newsmax would have cost it tens of millions, while Ruddy argues that the cost would have been a fraction of that amount. After failing to reach a new deal with Newsmax, DirecTV has also picked up The First TV, a conservative channel.
House Oversight Chairman James Comer has indicated that Republicans are preparing to investigate DirecTV for allegedly targeting Newsmax. Ruddy thanked Ted Cruz and Jim Comer for supporting the fight against DirecTV.
