### FCC Commissioner Criticizes Kamala Harris' SNL Appearance Over Equal Time Rule

FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr has criticized Kamala Harris' recent appearance on "Saturday Night Live," alleging that it was an attempt by the show to sidestep the Federal Communications Commission's Equal Time Rule. Carr expressed his concerns on X, emphasizing that the rule is intended to prevent biased political endorsements on public airwaves unless equal opportunities are extended to all qualified candidates.

The Equal Time Rule obligates broadcasters to offer comparable airtime to all legally qualifying political candidates if one is given airtime. According to the FCC, the rule ensures that comparable time and placement are provided, but not necessarily identical programming. Stations are also not mandated to proactively seek out candidates for equal opportunities; candidates must request the time themselves.

A spokesperson for Donald Trump’s campaign has not immediately indicated whether they plan to request equal airtime in light of Harris' SNL cameo. Furthermore, NBC has remained silent on the issue, though an insider mentioned that the network would adhere to any regulatory requirements if necessary.

There's a considerable exemption for news programs under the Equal Time rules, covering entities like late-night talk shows. However, "Saturday Night Live" has historically not been granted this exemption. For instance, in 2015, when Donald Trump hosted the show, NBC offered airtime to several of his Republican primary opponents in regions with upcoming primaries to comply with the rule.

In his social media post, Carr argued that Harris' appearance, so close to an election, was a deliberate attempt to evade equal time requirements. He questioned how NBC plans to provide equal time and placement for other qualifying candidates given the limited time before the election. This isn't the first instance of the show featuring political figures close to an election; in 2008, John McCain appeared on "Saturday Night Live" just three days before voters headed to the polls.