As almost everyone here in Alabama knows (even me!), the University of Alabama will be playing Texas for the national football championship on January 7. It appears that people in some parts of south Alabama may not be able to watch the game on TV because of a contract dispute. Both of Alabama’s Republican senators and one congressman rush to the rescue by pressuring the FCC to intervene. That’s right: ostensibly “conservative” Republicans, who in theory are opposed to government regulation of markets are asking a federal regulatory agency to interfere with private contract negotiations because they don’t like the deal the parties are making. The letter to the FCC, signed by Senators Shelby and Sessions and Representative Bonner, expresses concern that “thousands of Alabamians will lose the opportunity to watch the Crimson Tide.” In a Bible-belt state where atheists outnumber those of us who aren’t football fans, I guess principles go out the window when the Crimson Tide is involved. Hypocrites.
All statements herein made as a citizen for First Amendment purposes and not pursuant to my official duties.