Eric Trump Backs FCC Probe into ABC News over Erroneous Story

Eric Trump supports a federal investigation into a problematic story by ABC News. The piece addressed his family’s business links with defense contractor Anduril Industries. Ohio Senator Bernie Moreno requested the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) examine the report’s inaccuracies. ABC News initially published a story titled “Trump sons’ investments have won billions in Pentagon contracts since his election.” They removed it without explanation initially and later reposted it with corrections.

“You can’t publish a false hit-piece, let it spread and then delete it without any explanation,” Eric Trump stated. “ABC owes us answers,” he tweeted Monday on social media.

The story suggested Donald Trump Jr. and Eric Trump had connections to Pentagon-linked deals, prompting backlash. Moreno’s letter to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr emphasized accountability and questioned ABC’s adherence to broadcaster responsibilities. Moreno urged an investigation into who approved the report and if ABC News breached its license obligations.

Controversy arose after ABC News’ claim that 1789 Capital, where Trump Jr. is a partner, made a significant investment in Anduril. The report initially mentioned a $2.5 billion investment, misrepresenting the actual $50 million share from 1789 Capital.

ABC News revised the report, clarifying errors about investments and government contracts. The updated article’s headline shifted focus to concerns over conflicts of interest, without naming the initial reporter. A journalist involved had defended the report, contradicting claims of premature publication, according to internal communications.

ABC News did not respond to inquiries about this issue. Sources hinted that network editors initially backed the story before its removal.