Not everybody wants it but many expect it.
The Fairness Doctrine is coming. Or at least that’s what the peanut gallery seems to collectively believe.
But 51% say it is at least somewhat likely that the Democratic-controlled Congress will restore the Fairness Doctrine, which requires holders of broadcast licenses to present balanced political coverage of important issues, as determined by the Federal Communications Commission. Fourteen percent (14%) believe it is Very Likely.
Thirty-seven percent (37%) say Congress is unlikely to restore the Fairness Doctrine, which the FCC abolished in 1987, arguing that it was unconstitutional and no longer necessary given the variety of media outlets available to Americans. Six percent (6%) say it is not at all likely to be restored.
Rassmussen Reports breaks it down for us:
| How Likely Is It That Congress Will Pass The Fairness Doctrine? | |
|---|---|
| Very likely | 14% |
| Somewhat likely | 37% |
| Not very likely | 31% |
| Not at all likely | 6% |
| Not sure | 12% |

