turner broadcasting system fcc argued january decided june concerned competitive imbalance cable television broadcasters endangering broadcasters ability compete viewing audience thus necessary operating revenues congress passed cable television consumer protection competition act sections act require cable television systems devote specified portion channels transmission local commercial public broadcast stations soon act became law appellants numerous cable programmers operators challenged constitutionality provisions district granted intervenor defendants summary judgment ruling provisions consistent first amendment rejected appellants argument provisions warrant strict scrutiny regulation sustained intermediate standard scrutiny set forth concluding sufficiently tailored serve important governmental interest preservation local broadcasting held judgment vacated case remanded vacated remanded justice kennedy delivered opinion respect parts ii concluding appropriate standard evaluate constitutionality provisions intermediate level scrutiny applicable restrictions impose incidental burden speech pp provisions impose special obligations page ii upon cable operators special burdens upon cable programmers heightened first amendment scrutiny demanded less rigorous standard scrutiny reserved broadcast regulation see red lion broadcasting fcc extended cable regulation since rationale review dual problems spectrum scarcity signal interference apply context cable mere assertion dysfunction failure cable market without sufficient shield speech regulation first amendment standards applicable nonbroadcast media moreover enforcement generally applicable law members press may sometimes warrant rational basis scrutiny laws single press special treatment pose particular danger abuse state always subject degree heightened scrutiny pp rules thus subject strict scrutiny neutral face distinguish speakers television programming market based upon manner programmers transmit messages viewers messages carry purposes underlying rules also unrelated content congress overriding objective favor programming particular content rather preserve access free television programming percent americans without cable challenged provisions design operation confirm purpose congress acknowledgement broadcast television stations make valuable contribution nation communications structure indicate congress regarded broadcast programming valuable cable programming rather reflects recognition services provided broadcast television intrinsic value worth preserving threats posed cable also incorrect suggest congress enacted effort exercise content control subscribers view cable television given minimal extent federal communications commission congress influence programming offered broadcast stations pp none appellants additional arguments suffices require strict scrutiny case provisions intrude editorial control cable operators application force cable operators alter messages respond broadcast programming must carry addition physical connection television set cable network gives cable operators bottleneck page iii gatekeeper control programming delivered subscribers homes miami herald publishing tornillo pacific gas electric public utilities distinguished strict scrutiny also triggered congress preference broadcasters cable operators since based content programming group offers belief broadcast television economic peril scrutiny warranted fact provisions single certain members press cable operators disfavored treatment differential treatment justified special characteristics cable medium namely cable operators bottleneck monopoly dangers power poses viability broadcast television provisions structured manner carries inherent risk undermining first amendment interests arkansas writers project ragland minneapolis star tribune minnesota revenue distinguished pp regulation sustained furthers important governmental interest unrelated suppression free expression incidental restriction alleged first amendment freedoms greater essential furtherance interest viewed abstract governmental interests benefits free local broadcast stations promoting widespread dissemination information multiplicity sources promoting fair competition market television important pp justice kennedy joined chief justice justice blackmun justice souter concluded part fact asserted interests important abstract mean provisions fact advance interests government must demonstrate recited harms real merely conjectural regulation fact alleviate harms direct material way thus government must adequately show economic health local broadcasting genuine jeopardy need protections afforded assuming affirmative answer government still bears burden showing remedy adopted burden substantially speech necessary interests state record developed absence findings fact district possible conclude government satisfied either inquiry genuine issues page iv material fact still resolved record district erred granting summary judgment government pp justice stevens though favoring affirmance concurred judgment otherwise disposition case supported five justices substantial agreement justice kennedy analysis case turner broadcasting system fcc justice kennedy announced judgment delivered opinion except part sections cable television consumer protection competition act require cable television systems devote portion channels transmission local broadcast television stations case presents question whether provisions abridge freedom speech press violation first amendment district district columbia granted summary judgment holding challenged provisions consistent first amendment issues material fact remain unresolved record developed thus far vacate district judgment remand case proceedings role cable television nation communications system undergone dramatic change past years given pace technological advancement increasing convergence cable turner broadcasting system fcc electronic media cable industry today stands center ongoing telecommunications revolution still undefined potential affect way communicate develop intellectual resources earliest cable systems built late bring clear broadcast television signals remote mountainous communities purpose replace broadcast television enhance see southwestern cable brenner price meyerson cable television nonbroadcast video hamburg cable ch modern cable systems much enhance reception nearby broadcast television stations capacity carry dozens channels import distant programming signals via satellite microwave relay today cable systems direct competition broadcasters independent source television programming broadcast cable television distinguished different technologies reach viewers broadcast stations radiate electromagnetic signals central transmitting antenna signals captured turn television set within antenna range cable systems contrast rely upon physical connection transmission facility television sets individual subscribers cable systems make connection much like telephone companies using cable optical fibers strung buried ducts reach homes businesses subscribers construction physical infrastructure entails use public easements often results disruption traffic streets public property result cable medium may depend existence upon express permission local governing turner broadcasting system fcc authorities see generally community communications boulder cable technology affords two principal benefits broadcast first eliminates signal interference sometimes encountered broadcasting thus gives viewers undistorted reception broadcast stations second capable transmitting many channels available broadcasting giving subscribers access far greater programming variety half cable systems operation today capacity carry channels television cable factbook percent cable subscribers served systems capacity channels ibid newer systems carry hundreds channels many older systems upgraded fiber optic rebuilds digital compression technology increase channel capacity see cablevision systems adds rapid fiber growth cable systems communications daily pp cable television industry includes cable operators physical cable network transmit cable signal viewer cable programmers produce television programs sell license cable operators cases cable operators acquired ownership cable programmers vice versa although cable operators may create programming programming drawn outside sources outside sources include local distant broadcast stations also many national regional cable programming networks emerged recent years cnn mtv espn tnt family channel nickelodeon arts entertainment black entertainment television courttv discovery channel american movie classics comedy central learning channel turner broadcasting system fcc weather channel cable operator selected programming sources cable system functions essence conduit speech others transmitting continuous unedited basis subscribers see brenner cable television freedom expression duke part cable personnel review material provided cable networks able systems conscious control program services provided others contrast commercial broadcast stations transmit signals charge viewers generate revenues selling time advertisers cable systems charge subscribers monthly fee right receive cable programming rely lesser extent advertising instances cable subscribers choose stations receive selecting among various plans tiers cable service typical offering basic tier consists local broadcast stations plus number cable programming networks selected cable operator additional cost subscribers obtain channels devoted particular subjects interests feature movies sports children programming sexually explicit programming like many cable systems also offer service allows individual subscriber order pay fee see single movie program set time day see goodale cable legal business aspects cable pay television brenner supra october congress overrode presidential veto enact cable television consumer protection competition act pub stat cable act act among things turner broadcasting system fcc act subjects cable industry rate regulation federal communications commission fcc municipal franchising authorities prohibits municipalities awarding exclusive franchises cable operators imposes various restrictions cable programmers affiliated cable operators directs fcc develop promulgate regulations imposing minimum technical standards cable operators issue case constitutionality provisions contained act require cable operators carry signals specified number local broadcast television stations section requires carriage local commercial television stations defined include full power television broadcasters qualifying noncommercial educational stations operate within television market cable system supp iv cable systems active channels subscribers required set aside channels commercial broadcast stations request carriage cable systems subscribers fewer active channels must carry signals three commercial broadcast stations turner broadcasting system fcc fewer broadcasters requesting carriage slots made available act cable operator obligated carry broadcasters make request however requesting broadcast stations slots available cable operator permitted choose stations carry broadcast signals carried provision must transmitted continuous uninterrupted basis must placed numerical channel position broadcast air subject exceptions cable operator may charge fee carrying broadcast signals fulfillment obligations section act imposes similar requirements regarding carriage local public broadcast television stations referred act local noncommercial educational television stations supp iv cable system turner broadcasting system fcc fewer channels must carry one stations system channels must carry one three system channels must carry local public broadcast station requesting carriage act requires cable operator import distant signals certain circumstances provides protection substantial duplication local noncommercial educational stations see commercial broadcast stations requires cable system operators carry program schedule public broadcast station entirety channel position taken together therefore subject smallest cable systems nationwide obligations confer privileges full power broadcasters operating within television market qualified cable system congress enacted cable act conducting three years hearings structure operation cable television industry see pp describing hearings conclusions congress drew factfinding process recited text act see brief congress found physical characteristics cable transmission compounded increasing concentration economic power cable industry endangering ability broadcast television stations compete viewing audience thus necessary operating revenues congress determined turner broadcasting system fcc regulation market video programming necessary correct competitive imbalance particular congress found percent households television sets subscribe cable households cable replaced broadcast television primary provider video programming congress found ost subscribers cable television systems maintain antennas receive broadcast television services input selector switches convert cable antenna reception system otherwise receive broadcast television services ibid addition congress concluded due local franchising requirements extraordinary expense constructing one cable television system serve particular geographic area overwhelming majority cable operators exercise monopoly cable service result congress determined undue market power cable operator compared consumers video programmers ibid according congress market position gives cable operators power incentive harm broadcast competitors power derives cable operator ability owner transmission facility terminate retransmission broadcast signal refuse carry new signals reposition broadcast signal disadvantageous channel position incentive derives economic reality able television systems broadcast television stations increasingly compete television advertising revenues refusing carriage broadcasters signals cable operators practical matter reduce number households access broadcasters programming thereby capture advertising dollars otherwise go broadcast stations turner broadcasting system fcc congress found addition increased vertical integration cable industry making even harder broadcasters secure carriage cable systems cable operators financial incentive favor affiliated programmers congress also determined cable industry characterized horizontal concentration many cable operators sharing common ownership resulted greater barriers entry new programmers reduction number media voices available consumers light technological economic conditions congress concluded unless cable operators required carry local broadcast stations substantial likelihood additional local broadcast signals deleted repositioned carried marked shift market share broadcast cable continue erode advertising revenue base sustains free local broadcast television consequence economic viability free local broadcast television ability originate quality local programming seriously jeopardized soon act became law appellants filed five consolidated actions district district columbia federal communications commission hereinafter referred collectively government challenging constitutionality provisions appellants plaintiffs numerous cable programmers cable operators additional parties intervened district convened hear actions cable act supp iv plaintiffs filed motion summary turner broadcasting system fcc judgment several intervenor defendants filed summary judgment government filed dismiss although government asked summary judgment district divided opinion granted summary judgment favor government intervenor defendants ruling provisions consistent first amendment dc found enacting provisions congress employed regulatory powers economy impose order upon market dysfunction characterized cable act simply antitrust fair trade practice regulatory legislation said requirements essentially economic regulation designed create competitive balance video industry whole redress effects cable operators anticompetitive practices ibid rejected appellants contention requirements warrant strict scrutiny regulation concluding commercial public broadcast provisions intent well form unrelated recondite sense content messages cable operators broadcasters programmers contemplation deliver ibid proceeded sustain provisions intermediate standard scrutiny set forth concluding preservation local broadcasting important governmental interest provisions sufficiently tailored serve interest judge williams dissented acknowledged real problem cable systems control access bottlenecks important communications medium concluded congress may address turner broadcasting system fcc problem extending access rights broadcast television stations view rules thus subject strict scrutiny require cable operators carry speech might otherwise choose exclude congress decision grant favorable access broadcast programmers rested part quite explicitly finding content applying strict scrutiny judge williams determined interests advanced support law inadequate justify assuming abstract matter interest preserving access free television compelling found evidence access jeopardy likewise concluded rules insufficiently tailored asserted interest programming diversity cable operators carry vast majority local stations thus extent rules effect replace mix chosen cablecasters whose livelihoods depend largely satisfying audience demand mix derived congressional dictate direct appeal followed see supp iv noted probable jurisdiction ii disagreement initial premise cable programmers cable operators engage transmit speech entitled protection speech press provisions first amendment leathers medlock original programming exercising editorial discretion stations programs include repertoire cable programmers operators see communicate messages wide variety topics wide variety formats los angeles turner broadcasting system fcc preferred communications requiring cable systems set aside portion channels local broadcasters rules regulate cable speech two respects rules reduce number channels cable operators exercise unfettered control render difficult cable programmers compete carriage limited channels remaining nevertheless every interference speech triggers degree scrutiny first amendment must decide outset level scrutiny applicable provisions address first government contention regulation cable television analyzed first amendment standard applies regulation broadcast television true cases permitted intrusive regulation broadcast speakers speakers media compare red lion broadcasting fcc television national broadcasting radio miami herald publishing tornillo print riley national federation blind personal solicitation rationale applying less rigorous standard first amendment scrutiny broadcast regulation whatever validity cases elaborating apply context cable regulation justification distinct approach broadcast regulation rests upon unique physical limitations broadcast medium see fcc league women voters red lion supra national broadcasting general matter broadcasters frequencies available turner broadcasting system fcc electromagnetic spectrum two broadcasters attempt transmit frequency locale interfere one another signals neither heard scarcity broadcast frequencies thus required establishment regulatory mechanism divide electromagnetic spectrum assign specific frequencies particular broadcasters see fcc league women voters supra fundamental distinguishing characteristic new medium broadcasting roadcast frequencies scarce resource must portioned among applicants internal quotation marks omitted fcc national citizens comm broadcasting addition inherent physical limitation number speakers may use broadcast medium thought require adjustment traditional first amendment analysis permit government place limited content restraints impose certain affirmative obligations broadcast licensees red lion said red lion substantially individuals want broadcast frequencies allocate idle posit unabridgeable first amendment right broadcast comparable right every individual speak write publish see also columbia broadcasting system democratic national committee although courts commentators criticized scarcity rationale since inception declined turner broadcasting system fcc question continuing validity support broadcast jurisprudence see fcc league women voters supra see reason broadcast cases inapposite present context cable television suffer inherent limitations characterize broadcast medium indeed given rapid advances fiber optics digital compression technology soon may practical limitation number speakers may use cable medium danger physical interference two cable speakers attempting share channel light fundamental technological differences broadcast cable transmission application relaxed standard scrutiny adopted red lion broadcast cases inapt determining first amendment validity cable regulation see bolger youngs drug products decisions recognized special interest federal government regulation broadcast media readily translate justification regulation means communication omitted say unique physical characteristics cable transmission ignored determining constitutionality regulations affecting cable speech see infra whatever relevance physical characteristics may evaluation particular cable regulations require alteration settled principles first amendment jurisprudence turner broadcasting system fcc although government acknowledges substantial technological differences broadcast cable see brief federal appellees advances second argument application red lion framework cable regulation asserts foundation broadcast jurisprudence physical limitations electromagnetic spectrum rather market dysfunction characterizes broadcast market cable market beset similar dysfunction government maintains red lion standard review also apply cable agree cable market suffers certain structural impediments government argument flawed two respects first discussed special physical characteristics broadcast transmission economic characteristics broadcast market underlies broadcast jurisprudence see league women voters supra national citizens comm broadcasting supra red lion supra second mere assertion dysfunction failure speech market without sufficient shield speech regulation first amendment standards applicable nonbroadcast media see austin michigan chamber commerce federal election massachusetts citizens life miami herald publishing tornillo related course reasoning government appellees maintain provisions nothing antitrust legislation thus warrant rational basis scrutiny precedents governing legislative efforts correct market failure market whose commodity speech associated press lorain journal see brief federal appellees turner broadcasting system fcc contention unavailing associated press lorain journal involved actions members press brought sherman antitrust act law general application enforcement generally applicable law may may subject heightened scrutiny first amendment compare cohen cowles media barnes glen theatre laws single press certain elements thereof special treatment pose particular danger abuse state arkansas writers project ragland always subject least degree heightened first amendment scrutiny see preferred communications supra law subjected colorable first amendment challenge rule rationality sustain legislation constitutional challenges typically controlling force provisions impose special obligations upon cable operators special burdens upon cable programmers measure heightened first amendment scrutiny demanded see minneapolis star tribune supra heart first amendment lies principle person decide ideas beliefs deserving expression consideration adherence political system cultural life rest upon ideal see leathers medlock citing cohen california west virginia bd ed barnette government action stifles speech account message requires utterance particular message favored government contravenes essential right laws turner broadcasting system fcc sort pose inherent risk government seeks advance legitimate regulatory goal suppress unpopular ideas information manipulate public debate coercion rather persuasion restrictions rais specter government may effectively drive certain ideas viewpoints marketplace simon schuster members new york state crime victims slip reasons first amendment subject narrow exceptions countenance governmental control content messages expressed private individuals paul slip texas johnson precedents thus apply exacting scrutiny regulations suppress disadvantage impose differential burdens upon speech content see simon schuster slip kennedy concurring judgment slip perry education assn perry local educators laws compel speakers utter distribute speech bearing particular message subject rigorous scrutiny see riley national federation blind west virginia bd ed barnette supra contrast regulations unrelated content speech subject intermediate level scrutiny see clark community creative cases pose less substantial risk excising certain ideas viewpoints public dialogue deciding whether particular regulation always simple task said principal inquiry determining whether government adopted regulation speech agreement turner broadcasting system fcc disagreement message conveys ward rock racism see slip government may regulate speech based hostility favoritism towards underlying message expressed purpose justification regulation often evident face see frisby schultz purpose may sufficient certain circumstances show regulation necessary showing cases cf simon schuster supra slip illicit legislative intent sine qua non violation first amendment quoting minneapolis star tribune minnesota revenue mere assertion purpose enough save law face discriminates based content arkansas writers project supra carey brown general rule laws terms distinguish favored speech disfavored speech basis ideas views expressed see burson freeman slip whether individuals may exercise rights near polling places depends entirely whether speech related political campaign boos barry plurality opinion whether municipal ordinance permits individuals picket front foreign embassy depends entirely upon whether picket signs critical foreign government contrast laws confer benefits impose burdens speech without reference ideas views expressed instances see city council los angeles taxpayers vincent ordinance prohibiting posting signs turner broadcasting system fcc public property neutral indeed silent concerning speaker point view heffron international society krishna consciousness state fair regulation requiring sales solicitations take place designated locations applies evenhandedly wish distribute sell written materials solicit funds insofar pertain carriage full power broadcasters rules face impose burdens confer benefits without reference content speech although provisions interfere turner broadcasting system fcc cable operators editorial discretion compelling offer carriage certain minimum number broadcast stations extent interference depend upon content cable operators programming rules impose obligations upon operators save fewer subscribers regardless programs stations offer offered past nothing act imposes restriction penalty burden reason views programs stations cable operator selected select number channels cable operator must set aside depends operator channel capacity see supp iv hence operator avoid mitigate obligations act altering programming offers subscribers cf miami herald publishing tornillo newspaper may avoid access obligations refraining speech critical political candidates provisions also burden cable programmers reducing number channels compete burden unrelated content extends cable programmers irrespective programming choose offer viewers cf boos supra individuals may picket front foreign embassy long picket signs critical foreign government finally privileges conferred provisions also unrelated content rules benefit full power broadcasters request carriage commercial noncommercial independent network affiliated english spanish language religious secular aggregate effect rules thus make every full power commercial noncommercial broadcaster eligible provided broadcaster operates within television market cable system turner broadcasting system fcc true provisions distinguish speakers television programming market based upon manner speakers transmit messages viewers upon messages carry broadcasters transmit airwaves favored cable programmers disfavored cable operators burdened carriage obligations control access cable conduit long subtle means exercising content preference speaker distinctions nature presumed invalid first amendment provisions face burden benefit speech particular content end inquiry cases recognized even regulation neutral face may manifest purpose regulate speech message conveys eichman although flag protection act contains explicit limitation scope prohibited conduct nevertheless clear government asserted interest related suppression free expression emphasis original internal quotation marks omitted see also ward clark community creative cf church lukumi babalu aye hialeah slip appellants contend regard regulations congress purpose enacting promote speech favored content agree review act various findings persuades us congress overriding objective enacting favor programming particular subject matter viewpoint format rather preserve access free television turner broadcasting system fcc programming percent americans without cable unusually detailed statutory findings supra congress explained cable systems broadcast stations compete local advertising revenue cable operators vested financial interest favoring affiliated programmers broadcast stations cable operators economic incentive delete reposition carry local broadcast signals congress concluded absent requirement cable systems carry signals local broadcast stations continued availability free local broadcast television threatened ibid congress sought avoid elimination broadcast television words uch programming free television sets require cable transmission receive broadcast television signals substantial governmental interest promoting continued availability free television programming especially viewers unable afford means receiving programming ibid preventing cable operators refusing carriage broadcast television stations rules ensure broadcast television stations retain large enough potential audience earn necessary advertising revenue case noncommercial broadcasters sufficient viewer contributions see maintain continued operation provisions designed guarantee survival medium become vital part nation communication system ensure every individual television set obtain access free television programming overriding congressional purpose unrelated content expression disseminated cable turner broadcasting system fcc broadcast speakers indeed precedents held protecting noncable households loss regular television broadcasting service due competition cable systems permissible governmental justification important substantial federal interest capital cities cable crisp see also midwest video plurality opinion design operation challenged provisions confirm purposes underlying enactment scheme unrelated content speech rules mentioned confer rights full power broadcasters irrespective content programming require prohibit carriage particular ideas points view penalize cable operators programmers content programming compel cable operators affirm points view disagree produce net decrease amount available speech leave cable operators free carry whatever programming wish channels subject requirements appellants dissent make much fact course describing purposes behind act congress referred value broadcast programming particular congress noted broadcast television important source local news public affairs programming local broadcast services critical informed electorate see also noncommercial television provides educational informational programming nation citizens think however references cast material doubt character congress acknowledged local orientation broadcast programming turner broadcasting system fcc role noncommercial stations played educating public indicate congress regarded broadcast programming valuable cable programming rather reflects nothing recognition services provided broadcast television intrinsic value thus worth preserving threats posed cable see congress solicitousness local broadcasters material simply rests assumption much say interest value cable programmers service given geographic market audience operation act undermines suggestion congress purpose enacting force programming local educational content cable subscribers provisions stated benefit full power broadcasters irrespective nature programming fact cable system required bump cable programmer make room broadcast station nothing stop cable operator displacing cable station provides programming broadcaster provides little appellants even contend moreover broadcast programming local educational cable programming cf leathers medlock state law imposing tax upon cable television exempting media content based part due lack evidence cable programming differs systematically message communicated satellite broadcast programming newspapers magazines short congress acknowledgment broadcast television stations make valuable contribution nation communications system render scheme scope operation challenged provisions make clear turner broadcasting system fcc view congress designed provisions promote speech particular content prevent cable operators exploiting economic power detriment broadcasters thereby ensure americans especially unable subscribe cable access free television programming whatever content likewise reject suggestion advanced appellants judge williams dissent rules preference broadcast stations automatically entails content requirements true broadcast programming unlike cable programming subject certain limited content restraints imposed statute fcc regulation follow congress mandated cable carriage broadcast television stations means ensuring particular programs shown shown cable systems initial matter argument exaggerates extent fcc permitted intrude matters affecting content broadcast programming fcc forbidden statute engaging censorship promulgating regulation shall interfere broadcasters right free speech fcc well aware turner broadcasting system fcc limited nature jurisdiction acknowledged authority fact barred first amendment interfering free exercise journalistic judgment hubbard broadcasting particular fcc oversight responsibilities grant power ordain particular type programming must offered broadcast stations although commission may inquire licensees done determine needs community propose serve commission may impose upon private notions public hear network programming inquiry report statement policy see also commercial tv stations modified remanded part grounds sub nom action children television fcc cadc stations licensed broadcast special frequencies reserved noncommercial educational stations subject intrusive content regulation commercial counterparts noncommercial licensees must operate nonprofit basis may accept financial consideration exchange particular programming may broadcast promotional announcements advertisements behalf entities cfr see generally public broadcasting educational broadcast stations modified important present purposes however noncommercial licensees required statute regulation carry specific quantity educational programming particular educational programs noncommercial licensees like commercial counterparts need adhere general requirement turner broadcasting system fcc programming serve public interest convenience necessity en banc programming inquiry fcc recognized rigorous standard public stations come unnecessarily close impinging first amendment rights run collateral risk stifling creativity innovative potential stations public broadcasting supra see also public radio tv programming georgia state bd addition although federal funding provided corporation public broadcasting cpb supports programming noncommercial stations government foreclosed using financial support gain leverage programming decisions see directing cpb carry purposes functions engage activities ways effectively assure maximum freedom public telecommunications entities systems interference control program content activities cpb operates without interference department agency officer federal government including fcc indeed cases recognized government regulation content broadcast programming must narrow broadcast licensees must retain abundant discretion programming choices see fcc league women voters invalidating first amendment statute forbidding noncommercial educational station receives grant cpb engage editorializing columbia broadcasting system democratic national committee describing risk enlargement government control content broadcast discussion public issues critical importance turner broadcasting system fcc first amendment thus given minimal extent fcc congress actually influence programming offered broadcast stations difficult conclude congress enacted effort exercise content control subscribers view cable television regime congress fcc exercised intrusive control content broadcast programming argument similar appellants might carry greater weight present regulatory system concerns without foundation short provisions designed favor disadvantage speech particular content rather meant protect broadcast television congress determined unfair competition cable systems enacting provisions congress sought preserve existing structure nation broadcast television medium permitting concomitant expansion development cable television particular ensure broadcast television remains available source video programming without cable appellants ability hypothesize purpose provisions rests little speculation cast doubt upon character cf arizona california indeed familiar principle constitutional law strike otherwise constitutional statute basis alleged illicit legislative motive citing mccray appellants advance three additional arguments support view provisions warrant strict scrutiny brief appellants contend turner broadcasting system fcc provisions compel speech cable operators favor broadcast programmers cable programmers single certain members press disfavored treatment none arguments suffices require strict scrutiny present case appellants maintain provisions trigger strict scrutiny compel cable operators transmit speech choosing relying principally miami herald publishing tornillo appellants say intrusion editorial control cable operators amounts forced speech per se invalid justified narrowly tailored compelling government interest tornillo affirmed essential proposition first amendment protects editorial independence press statute issue tornillo required newspaper assailed political candidate character print upon request candidate without cost candidate reply equal space prominence although statute censor speech traditional sense required newspapers grant access messages others found imposed impermissible burden newspaper speech right access issue tornillo triggered newspaper elected print matter critical political candidates exact ed penalty basis content found continue recognize statutes sort impermissible intrusion newspapers editorial control judgment explained practical effect florida statute deter newspapers speaking unfavorable terms political candidates turner broadcasting system fcc faced penalties accrue newspaper published news commentary arguably within reach statute editors might well conclude safe course avoid controversy therefore operation florida statute political electoral coverage blunted reduced principles led us invalidate similar access regulation pacific gas electric issue rule requiring utility quarterly basis include monthly bills editorial newsletter published consumer group critical utility ratemaking practices although access requirement applicable utility unlike statutory mechanism tornillo triggered speech particular content plurality held strict first amendment scrutiny applied like statute tornillo regulation conferred benefits speakers based viewpoint giving access consumer group opposing utility practices plurality observed order avoid appearance agreed group views utility feel compelled respond arguments allegations made group messages utility customers kind forced response plurality explained antithetical free discussion first amendment seeks foster ibid tornillo pacific gas electric control case following reasons first unlike access turner broadcasting system fcc rules struck cases rules application activated particular message spoken cable operators thus exact penalty cf riley national federation blind solicitation funds triggers requirement express message likewise grant access broadcasters ground content broadcast programming counterbalance messages cable operators instead confer benefits upon full power local broadcasters whatever content programming cf pacific gas electric supra access awarded disagree appellant views hostile appellant interests second appellants suggest think case force cable operators alter messages respond broadcast programming required carry see brenner cable television freedom expression duke adding new ideas offensive insightful tedious speaker granted access cable influence operator agenda given cable long history serving conduit broadcast signals appears little risk cable viewers assume broadcast stations carried cable system convey ideas messages endorsed cable operator indeed broadcasters required federal regulation identify least every hour cfr common practice broadcasters disclaim identity viewpoint management speakers use broadcast facility cf pruneyard shopping center robins noting views expressed speakers granted right access shopping center likely identified turner broadcasting system fcc owner moreover contrast statute issue tornillo aspect provisions cause cable operator cable programmer conclude safe course avoid controversy tornillo supra diminish free flow information ideas finally asserted analogy tornillo ignores important technological difference newspapers cable television although daily newspaper cable operator may enjoy monopoly status given locale cable operator exercises far greater control access relevant medium daily newspaper matter secure local monopoly possess power obstruct readers access competing publications whether weekly local newspapers daily newspapers published cities thus newspaper asserts exclusive control news copy thereby prevent newspapers distributed willing recipients locale true cable individual subscribes cable physical connection television set cable network gives cable operator bottleneck gatekeeper control television programming channeled subscriber home hence simply virtue ownership essential pathway cable speech cable operator prevent subscribers obtaining access programming chooses exclude cable operator unlike speakers media thus silence voice competing speakers mere flick switch turner broadcasting system fcc potential abuse private power central avenue communication overlooked see southeastern promotions conrad medium expression must assessed first amendment purposes standards suited may present problems first amendment command government impede freedom speech disable government taking steps ensure private interests restrict physical control critical pathway communication free flow information ideas see associated press thus reject appellants contention tornillo pacific gas electric require strict scrutiny access rules question second appellants urge us apply strict scrutiny provisions favor one set speakers broadcast programmers another cable programmers appellants maintain consequence speaker preference cable programmers secured carriage absence may dropped relying language buckley valeo appellants contend regulation presumed invalid first amendment government may restrict speech elements society order enhance relative voice others extent appellants argument rests view regulations distinguishing speakers warrant strict scrutiny see brief appellants turner turner broadcasting system fcc broadcasting system et al mistaken issue buckley federal law prohibiting individuals spending per year support oppose particular political candidate government justified law means equalizing relative ability individuals groups influence outcome elections buckley rejected argument observation congress may abridge rights persons engage political expression order enhance relative voice segments society holding buckley support appellants broad assertion laws presumed invalid rather stands proposition laws demand strict scrutiny reflect government preference substance favored speakers say aversion disfavored speakers say see regan taxation representation rejecting first amendment challenge differential tax treatment veterans groups charitable organizations noting case different indication statute intended suppress ideas demonstration effect expenditure limit buckley designed ensure political speech wealthy drown speech others found concerned communicative impact regulated speech see buckley supra beyond dispute interest regulating giving spending money arises measure communication thought harmful quoting indeed expenditure limitation unrelated content expression perceived turner broadcasting system fcc need congress equaliz relative ability interested individuals influence elections buckley thus stands proposition laws favoring speakers others demand strict scrutiny legislature speaker preference reflects content preference question whether congress preferred broadcasters cable programmers based content programming group offers answer explained supra congress granted privileges broadcast stations belief broadcast television industry economic peril due physical characteristics cable transmission economic incentives facing cable industry thus fact provisions benefit broadcasters cable programmers call strict scrutiny precedents finally appellants maintain strict scrutiny applies provisions single certain members press cable operators disfavored treatment see brief appellant time warner entertainment support appellants point congress required cable operators provide carriage broadcast stations imposed like burdens analogous video delivery systems multichannel multipoint distribution mmds systems satellite master antenna television smatv systems relying upon precedents invalidating discriminatory taxation press see arkansas writers project ragland minneapolis star tribune minnesota revenue grosjean american press appellants contend sort differential treatment turner broadcasting system fcc poses particular danger abuse government presumed invalid regulations discriminate among media among different speakers within single medium often present serious first amendment concerns minneapolis star example considered use tax imposed paper ink used production newspapers subjected tax strict scrutiny two reasons first applied press second practical application fell upon small number newspapers minneapolis star supra see also grosjean supra invalidating louisiana tax publications weekly circulations fell approximately newspapers distributed state sales tax issue arkansas writers project applied general interest magazines exempted religious professional trade sports magazines along newspapers suffered second infirmities operation tax levied upon limited number publishers also discriminated basis subject matter arkansas writers project supra relying part minneapolis star held selective taxation press warranted strict scrutiny error conclude however first amendment mandates strict scrutiny speech regulation applies one medium subset thereof others leathers medlock example upheld first amendment challenge application general state tax cable television services even though print media scrambled satellite broadcast television services exempted taxation leathers illustrates fact law singles certain medium even press whole insufficient raise first amendment concerns rather turner broadcasting system fcc laws nature constitutionally suspect certain circumstances taxes invalidated minneapolis star arkansas writers project example targeted small number speakers thus threatened distort market ideas although evidence illicit governmental motive behind either taxes structured manner raised suspicions objective fact suppression certain ideas see arkansas writers project supra minneapolis star heightened scrutiny unwarranted differential treatment justified special characteristic particular medium regulated ibid provisions explained justified special characteristics cable medium bottleneck monopoly power exercised cable operators dangers power poses viability broadcast television appellants argue appear media particular media transmit video programming mmds smatv subject bottleneck monopoly control pose demonstrable threat survival broadcast television come surprise congress decided impose obligations upon cable operators addition provisions structured manner carries inherent risk undermining first amendment interests regulations applying almost cable systems country rather select see supp iv cable systems fewer subscribers exempted result provisions pose dangers suppression manipulation posed narrowly targeted regulations turner broadcasting system fcc minneapolis star arkansas writers project reasons rules call strict scrutiny see leathers supra upholding state sales tax applied cable systems offering wide variety programming tax likely stifle free exchange ideas posed danger suppress ion iii sum provisions pose inherent dangers free expression present potential censorship manipulation justify application exacting level first amendment scrutiny agree district appropriate standard evaluate constitutionality intermediate level scrutiny applicable restrictions impose incidental burden speech see ward rock racism regulation sustained furthers important substantial governmental interest governmental interest unrelated suppression free expression incidental restriction alleged first amendment freedoms greater essential furtherance interest turner broadcasting system fcc congress declared provisions serve three interrelated interests preserving benefits free local broadcast television promoting widespread dissemination information multiplicity sources promoting fair competition market television programming cable act none interests related suppression free expression content speakers messages viewed abstract difficulty concluding important governmental interest ibid communications act congress created system free broadcast service directed communications facilities licensed across country fair efficient equitable manner communications act stat congress designed system allocation afford community appreciable size source information outlet exchange matters local concern southwestern cable wollenberg fcc arbiter public interest convenience necessity legislative history communications act pp paglin ed recognized southwestern cable supra importance local broadcasting outlets scarcely exaggerated broadcasting demonstrably principal source information entertainment great part nation population interest maintaining local broadcasting structure evaporate simply turner broadcasting system fcc cable come upon scene although cable technologies ushered alternatives broadcast television nearly percent american households still rely broadcast stations exclusive source television programming said capital cities cable crisp protecting noncable households loss regular television broadcasting service due competition cable systems important federal interest likewise assuring public access multiplicity information sources governmental purpose highest order promotes values central first amendment indeed long basic tenet national communications policy widest possible dissemination information diverse antagonistic sources essential welfare public midwest video plurality opinion quoting associated press see also fcc wncn listeners guild fcc national citizens committee broadcasting finally government interest eliminating restraints fair competition always substantial even individuals entities subject particular regulations engaged expressive activity protected first amendment see lorain journal associated press supra cf ftc superior trial lawyers government asserted interests important abstract mean however rules fact advance interests government defends regulation speech turner broadcasting system fcc means redress past harms prevent anticipated harms must simply posit existence disease sought cured quincy cable tv fcc cadc must demonstrate recited harms real merely conjectural regulation fact alleviate harms direct material way see edenfield fane slip los angeles preferred communications may simply assume ordinance always advance asserted state interests sufficiently justify abridgment expressive activity internal quotation marks omitted home box office fcc cadc regulation perfectly reasonable appropriate face given problem may highly capricious problem exist citation omitted thus applying scrutiny must ask first whether government adequately shown economic health local broadcasting genuine jeopardy need protections afforded assuming affirmative answer foregoing question government still bears burden showing remedy adopted burden substantially speech necessary government legitimate interests ward state record developed thus far absence findings fact district unable conclude government satisfied either inquiry defending factual necessity government relies principal part congress legislative finding absent mandatory carriage rules continued viability local broadcast television seriously jeopardized see brief federal appellees government contends finding though predictive nature must accorded turner broadcasting system fcc great weight first amendment inquiry especially congress sought address relationship two technical rapidly changing closely interdependent industries broadcasting cable agree courts must accord substantial deference predictive judgments congress see columbia broadcasting system democratic national committee judgment legislative branch ignored simply appellants cas claims umbrella first amendment sound policymaking often requires legislators forecast future events anticipate likely impact events based deductions inferences complete empirical support may unavailable see fcc national citizens comm broadcasting supra fpc transcontinental gas pipe line institution moreover congress far better equipped judiciary amass evaluate vast amounts data bearing upon issue complex dynamic presented walters national assn radiation survivors congress obligated enacting statutes make record type administrative agency accommodate judicial review congress predictive judgments entitled substantial deference mean however insulated meaningful judicial review altogether contrary stressed first amendment cases deference afforded legislative findings foreclose independent judgment facts bearing issue constitutional law sable communications fcc see also landmark communications virginia obligation turner broadcasting system fcc exercise independent judgment first amendment rights implicated license reweigh evidence de novo replace congress factual predictions rather assure formulating judgments congress drawn reasonable inferences based substantial evidence see century communications fcc cadc hen trenching first amendment interests even incidentally government must able adduce either empirical support least sound reasoning behalf measures government assertion rules necessary protect viability broadcast television rests two essential propositions unless cable operators compelled carry broadcast stations significant numbers broadcast stations refused carriage cable systems broadcast stations denied carriage either deteriorate substantial degree fail altogether support first proposition government relies upon fcc study showing time rules effect approximately percent cable systems reported dropping refusing carriage one local broadcast stations least one occasion see cable system broadcast signal carriage survey staff report policy rules division mass media bureau table cited record indicate however time frame within drops occurred many stations dropped temporary period restored carriage fcc study indicates percent cable operators reported shifting channel positions one local broadcast stations cases repositioning done marketing rather turner broadcasting system fcc technical reasons citing signal carriage survey supra tables parties disagree significance statistics even one accepts evidence large number broadcast stations dropped repositioned absence government must demonstrate broadcasters affected suffer financial difficulties result without substantial elaboration district predictive historical evidence upon congress relied introduction additional evidence establish dropped repositioned broadcasters serious risk financial difficulty determine whether threat broadcast television real enough overcome challenge provisions made appellants think significant instance parties presented evidence local broadcast stations fallen bankruptcy turned broadcast licenses curtailed broadcast operations suffered serious reduction operating revenues result dropped otherwise disadvantaged cable systems paucity evidence indicating broadcast television jeopardy deficiency record also lacking findings concerning actual effects speech cable operators cable programmers extent cable operators fact forced make changes current anticipated programming selections degree cable programmers dropped cable systems make room local broadcasters extent cable operators satisfy obligations devoting previously unused channel capacity carriage local broadcasters answers perhaps questions critical narrow tailoring step turner broadcasting system fcc analysis unless know extent provisions fact interfere protected speech say whether suppress substantially speech necessary ensure viability broadcast television ward finally record fails provide judicial findings concerning availability efficacy constitutionally acceptable less restrictive means achieving government asserted interests see sable communications sum genuine issues material fact still resolved record hold district erred granting summary judgment favor government see anderson liberty lobby unresolved factual questions importance issues broadcast cable industries conflicting conclusions parties contend drawn statistics evidence presented think necessary permit parties develop thorough factual record allow district resolve factual disputes remaining passing upon constitutional validity challenged provisions judgment vacated case remanded proceedings consistent opinion ordered footnotes enough local full power commercial broadcast stations fill allotment cable system active channels must carry one qualified low power station operator channels must carry two see see also defining qualified low power station low power television stations small broadcast entities transmit turner broadcasting system fcc limited geographic range licensed secondary basis permitted operate interfere signals full power broadcast stations cable systems required carry signal local commercial television station substantially duplicates signal broadcast station carried system see also implementation cable television consumer protection competition act broadcast signal carriage issues march defining substantial duplication overlap programming required carry signals one station affiliated national broadcast network cable operator choose carry broadcast stations duplicative programming however system credited stations purposes obligations noncommercial educational television station defined include broadcast stations either licensed fcc noncommercial educational television broadcast station licensees entities eligible receive grants turner broadcasting system fcc corporation public broadcasting owned operated municipality transmit predominantly noncommercial programs educational purposes see telecommunications research action center fcc cadc cert denied bollinger images free press powe american broadcasting first amendment spitzer seven dirty words six stories note message turner broadcasting system fcc medium first amendment information winer signal cable sends part ca cable like broadcasting coase federal communications commission econ rules also require carriage certain limited circumstances low power broadcast stations see supra act low power station may become eligible carriage among things fcc determines station programming address local news informational needs adequately served full power television broadcast stations geographic distance full power stations low power station community license recognize aspect appears single certain broadcasters special benefits basis content district address whether particular provisions parties make glancing reference operation justifications broadcast provisions think prudent allow district consider character provision first instance remand similar vein although broadcast station eligibility based upon geographic proximity qualifying cable system act permits fcc grant privileges upon request otherwise ineligible broadcast stations acting upon requests fcc directed give attention value localism particular whether requesting station provides news coverage issues concern community coverage sporting events interest community ii district address provision may remand see supp iv directing fcc consider extent license renewal applicant served educational informational needs children stat note following supp iv restrictions indecent programming allowing fcc revoke broadcast license willful repeated failure allow reasonable access broadcast airtime candidates seeking federal elective office cfr requiring broadcaster notify victims personal attacks provide victims opportunity respond air en banc programming inquiry requiring broadcasters air programming serves public interest convenience necessity one commentator observed central dilemma cable unlimited capacity accommodate much diversity many publishers print yet producers publishers use physical plant cable system turner broadcasting system fcc publisher may restrict circumstances allows others also use system de sola pool technologies freedom turner broadcasting system fcc justice blackmun concurring join justice kennedy opinion aptly identifies analyzes first amendment concerns principles guide consideration free speech issues expanding cable industry write emphasize paramount importance according substantial deference predictive judgments congress see columbia broadcasting system democratic national committee particularly legislative body compiled extensive record course reaching judgment nonetheless standard summary judgment high less first amendment values stake issue importance case remain unresolved issues material fact remand appropriate government occasion submit district portions record developed congress light opinion today portions submitted defeat motion summary judgment adequate support one record district doubt benefit additional evidence government parties see fit present turner broadcasting system fcc justice stevens concurring part concurring judgment justice kennedy ably explained overriding congressional purpose challenged provisions cable act guarantee survival medium become vital part nation communication system purpose unrelated content expression ante public interests protecting access television millions homes without cable assuring availability multiplicity information sources unquestionably substantial ante provisions amply justified special characteristics cable medium namely bottleneck monopoly power exercised cable operators dangers power poses viability broadcast television ante cable operators control essential facilities provides basis intrusive regulation inappropriate perhaps impermissible communicative media agree justice kennedy reasoning join parts ii ii iii opinion part ways appropriate disposition case view district turner broadcasting system fcc judgment sustaining provisions affirmed district majority evaluated regulations protected speech according standard justice kennedy opinion instructs apply remand view district reached correct result first time around economic measures always subject rest inevitably provisional uncertain forecasts future effect legal rules complex conditions whether congress might accomplished goals efficiently means whether correctly interpreted emerging trends protean communications industry indeed whether actually imprudent matter policy remain matters debate long act repealed replaced successor legislation question us merely whether congress fairly conclude cable operators monopoly position threatens continued viability broadcast television appropriate means minimizing risk justice kennedy recognizes ante findings congress particularly emerging sustained deliberations merit special respect accorded proper deference turner broadcasting system fcc findings sufficient sustain provisions facial attack congress conclusion example broadcasters denied carriage cable systems suffer serious potentially terminal economic harm see requires demonstration see american households cable cable subscribers rely solely medium receive video signals practical certainty broadcaster dropped local cable system suffer substantial economic harm also clear cable operators particularly exclusively affiliated cable programmers ability economic incentive exploit gatekeeper status detriment broadcasters thus even congress historical evidence terminations refusals carriage already occurred reasonably infer cable operators bottleneck control together already high degree vertical integration industry motivate conduct near future indeed turner broadcasting system fcc main thrust pertinent congressional findings cable carriers already eliminated broadcast competition grand scale given market power may soon industry need death throes congress may act protect economic harm threatened monopoly mandatory access mechanism congress fashioned act simple direct means dealing dangers posed cable operators exclusive control fast becoming preeminent means transferring video signals homes mechanism analogous relief might appropriate threatened violation antitrust laws one need refer undisputed facts concerning structure cable broadcast industries agree threat least plausible moreover congress find broadcasters risk acting protect vulnerable ones interest preserving access free television valid throughout nation indeed act well tailored assist broadcasters jeopardy thriving commercial broadcasters likely avail remunerative retransmission turner broadcasting system fcc consent procedure broadcasters gain access via route apt economically vulnerable ones precisely often broadcasters secure carriage rather depend upon future developments unpredictability effects new regulatory scheme militates favor allowing scheme proceed rather requiring perfectly documented entirely complete ex ante justification justice kennedy asks panel take additional evidence matters whether provisions really respond threatened harms broadcasters whether fact alleviate harms direct material way ante extent cable operators fact forced make changes current anticipated programming selections id additional evidence might cast light efficacy wisdom provisions additional evidence necessary resolve question facial constitutionality predicate facial validity provisions upon forecasts ultimate consequences implementation ask district address questions present susceptible reliable answers matters lead opinion singles review example degree cable programmers dropped turner broadcasting system fcc cable systems make room local broadcasters ante depend upon predictions future voluntary actions entities parties case best remand consideration factors require district engage speculation may actually invite parties adjust conduct effort affect result litigation perhaps opting drop cable programs rather seeking increase total channel capacity provisions may ultimately prove ineffective needlessly meddlesome means achieving congress legitimate goals however conclusion confidently drawn ever scheme tested experience face scheme rationally calculated redress dangers congress discerned lengthy investigation relationship cable broadcasting industries thus view affirm judgment district vote affirm however disposition appeal command support majority accommodation therefore necessary see screws rutledge concurring result accordingly substantial agreement justice kennedy analysis case concur judgment vacating remanding proceedings quarrel justice kennedy general statement question reviewing case kind merely whether congress drawn reasonable inferences based substantial evidence given caveat congress need compile restrict formal record manner required judicial administrative factfinder ante view however application standard require affirmance justice kennedy observes ante abdicate responsibility decide whether restriction speech violates first amendment factual findings accompanying economic measures enacted congress incidental effects speech merit greater deference turner broadcasting system fcc supporting restrictions speech see sable communications fcc landmark communications virginia cited ante restrictions imposed administrative agencies see century communications fcc cited ante see sess sess judge jackson put opinion district ven state broadcasting industry parlous defendants contend finds indisputable cable operators attained position dominance video signal distribution market henceforth exercise attendant market power find improbable congress conclusion market power provides cable operators incentive present ability block turner broadcasting system fcc programmers access bulk prospective viewing audience unconstrained cable holds future local broadcasting mercy light considerable body evidence amassed congress deference accord factfinding abilities nation legislature must conclude danger perceived congress real substantial turner broadcasting system citations omitted see result economic incentive cable systems delete reposition carry local broadcast signals economic viability free local broadcast television ability originate quality local programming seriously jeopardized see also obligations may broader necessary protect vulnerable broadcasters alone enough demonstrate violate first amendment thus instance extent obligate cable operators carry broadcasters carried even absence statutory obligation impairment operators freedom choice cable programmers ability secure carriage negligible turner broadcasting system fcc justice justice scalia justice ginsburg join justice thomas joins parts iii concurring part dissenting part many channels cable system carry fewer channels programmers want use system programmers dropped provisions cable television consumer protection competition act stat congress made choice reserving little channels cable system broadcasters ensured cases cable programmer dropped broadcaster retained question presented case whether choice comports commands first amendment cable act implicates first amendment rights two classes speakers first tells cable operators programmers must carry turner broadcasting system fcc keeps cable operators carrying others might prefer though cable operators actually originate programming show correctly holds first amendment purposes speakers ante selecting speech retransmit know example publishing houses movie theaters bookstores reader digest less communication creating speech first place second act deprives certain class video programmers operate cable channels rather broadcast stations access entire medium cable programmers may compete channels set aside provisions cable programmer might otherwise carried may well denied access favor broadcaster less appealing viewers favored rules government ordered movie theaters reserve least screening films made american production companies required bookstores devote shelf space nonprofit publishers explains parts opinion join cable programmers operators stand position first amendment traditional media first amendment normally within government power decide may speak may least private property traditional public fora government power impose time place manner restrictions large part precisely restrictions apply speakers laws treat speakers equally relatively poor tools controlling public debate generality creates substantial political check prevents unduly burdensome laws single particular turner broadcasting system fcc speakers substantially dangerous even draw explicit content distinctions see minneapolis star tribune minnesota revenue see also leathers medlock agree restrictions genuinely justified without reference content need subject strict scrutiny looking statute issue avoid conclusion preference broadcasters cable programmers justified reference content findings enacted congress act must assume state justifications law make clear substantial governmental first amendment interest promoting diversity views provided multiple technology media ublic television provides educational informational programming nation citizens thereby advancing government compelling interest educating citizens primary objective benefit nation system regulation television broadcasting local origination programming substantial governmental interest ensuring continuation broadcast television stations continue important source local news public affairs programming local broadcast services critical informed electorate similar justifications reflected operative provisions act determining whether broadcast station eligible particular market fcc must afford particular attention value localism taking account factors whether eligible station provides news coverage issues concern community provides carriage coverage sporting events interest community turner broadcasting system fcc ii supp iv determining whether station eligible fcc must ask whether station address local news informational needs adequately served full power television broadcast stations supp iv moreover act distinguishes commercial television stations noncommercial educational television stations giving special benefits latter compare provisions may technically severable statute still strong evidence statute justifications preferences diversity viewpoints localism educational programming news public affairs make reference content may reflect hostility particular points view desire suppress certain subjects controversial offensive may quite benignly motivated benign motivation consistently held enough avoid need strict scrutiny justifications simon schuster members new york state crime victims slip arkansas writers project ragland first amendment bar government intentionally suppressing speech disapproves also generally prohibits government excepting certain kinds speech regulation thinks speech especially valuable see regan time metromedia san diego plurality carey brown police department chicago mosley cox louisiana black concurring see also paul slip government may regulate speech based turner broadcasting system fcc hostility favoritism towards underlying message expressed mistaken concluding interest diversity access multiplicity diverse antagonistic sources ante internal quotation marks omitted indeed interest related suppression free expression ante emphasis added internal quotation marks omitted enough content neutrality interest giving tax break religious sports professional magazines see arkansas writers project supra related suppression speech interest giving labor picketers exemption general picketing ban see carey mosley supra related suppression speech related content speech communicative impact interest ensuring access multiplicity diverse antagonistic sources information matter praiseworthy directly tied content speakers likely say dismisses findings quoted speculating reveal preference certain kinds content rather suggests findings show nothing recognition services provided broadcast television intrinsic value thus worth preserving threats posed cable ante agree rare enough congress body statute findings underlying decision fair assume findings reflect basis legislative decision especially thrust findings reflected rest statute see church lukumi babalu aye hialeah slip turner broadcasting system fcc relying recitals city council resolution evidence justifications ordinance moreover seem likely congress make extensive findings merely show broadcast television valuable controversial judgment heart statute broadcast television value obviously broadcasters preferred cable programmers best explanation findings seems represent congress reasons adopting preference according findings reasons rest part content broadcasters speech say face findings rules impose burdens confer benefits without reference content speech ante correct especially light care must normally approach restrictions see minneapolis star tribune minnesota revenue may well congress also purposes mind enacting statute never held presence permissible justification lessens impropriety relying part impermissible justification fact often struck statutes impermissibly content based even though primary purpose indubitably content neutral see arkansas writers project supra striking exemptions general revenue measure regan time supra striking exemptions general statute metromedia san diego supra plurality striking content discrimination grounds general urban beautification ordinance carey brown supra striking content discrimination grounds ordinance aimed preserving residential privacy course mere possibility statute might justified turner broadcasting system fcc reference content enough make statute content based neither evidence legislators voted statute reasons justification appears statute face ignore another justification present speech restrictions generally unconstitutional unless narrowly tailored compelling state interest boos barry exacting test enough goals law legitimate reasonable even praiseworthy must pressing public necessity essential value preserved even law must restrict little speech possible serve goal interest localism either dissemination opinions held listeners neighbors reporting events local community described compelling purposes compelling state interest test legitimate interest perhaps even important one certainly government foster instance providing subsidies public fisc rise level necessary justify speech restrictions private speakers listeners government decide fraction news entertainment local character fraction national international one true interest diversity viewpoints government may subsidize speakers thinks provide novel points view may restrict speakers theory say conventional cf metro broadcasting fcc turner broadcasting system fcc dissenting pacific gas electric public utilities plurality interests public affairs programming educational programming seem somewhat weightier though difficult question whether compelling enough justify restricting sorts speech never held government impose educational content requirements say newsstands bookstores movie theaters clear requirements event appreciably goals public education even assuming arguendo government set channels aside educational news programming act insufficiently tailored goal benefit educational broadcasters act burdens cable entertainment programmers equally burdens cnn discovery channel new inspirational network channels much claim pbs educational related public affairs even government restrict entertainment order benefit supposedly valuable speech think restriction extend speech valuable speech benefited rare circumstances government may draw distinctions serve goals restrictions must serve goals good deal precisely see arkansas writers project erznoznik city jacksonville finally conclusion rules content based leads conclude impermissible restraint cable operators editorial discretion well cable programmers speech reasons related content speech rules restrict ability cable operators put programming prefer require include programming turner broadcasting system fcc rather avoid seems puts case squarely within rule pacific gas electric plurality marshall concurring judgment see also miami herald publishing tornillo ii even mistaken provisions content based however view fail scrutiny well assuming arguendo provisions justified reference interests fair competition preservation free television nonetheless restrict much speech implicate interests sometimes cable system choice carry cable programmer rather broadcaster may motivated anticompetitive impulses might lead broadcaster going business see ante speech within broad category causes harm however justify restricting whole category congress wants protect stations danger going business bar cable operators preferring programmers operators ownership stake may may course advancing interests restrict cable operators programmers circumstances neither interests threatened regulation narrowly tailored even lenient standard applicable restrictions substantial portion burden speech serve advance state goals simon schuster slip internal quotation marks omitted government wants avoid littering may ban littering may ban leafleting schneider state town irvington turner broadcasting system fcc government wants avoid fraudulent political fundraising may bar fraud may process prohibit legitimate fundraising schaumburg citizens better environment see also edenfield fane slip government wants protect householders unwanted solicitors may enforce soliciting signs householders put may cut access homes whose residents willing hear solicitors say martin city struthers broad prophylactic rules area free expression suspect precision regulation must touchstone naacp button citations omitted iii said important acknowledge one basic fact question whether control gets speak cable question turner broadcasting system fcc control fcc view answer congress acting within relatively broad limits view answer cable operator time cable operator decision largely dictated preferences viewers many cable operators indeed monopolists viewers preferences always prevail recognition cable operators speakers bottomed large part fact cable operator editorial discretion ante doubt danger single cable operator decide millions subscribers watch doubt congress act relieve danger provisions act congress already taken steps foster competition among cable systems supp iv congress encourage creation new media inexpensive satellite broadcasting networks virtually unlimited channels even simple devices let people easily switch cable broadcasting course congress subsidize broadcasters thinks provide especially valuable programming congress may also able act mandatory ways congress finds cable operators leaving channels empty perhaps ease future expansion compel operators make free channels available programmers otherwise get carriage see pruneyard shopping center robins upholding compelled access scheme burden others speech congress might also conceivably obligate cable operators act common carriers channels channels open sort lottery system timesharing arrangement setting aside possible takings clause issues stands reason congress may demand telephone turner broadcasting system fcc companies operate common carriers ask cable companies approach suffer defect preferring one speaker another first amendment understand today rests premise government power rather private power main threat free expression consequence amendment imposes substantial limitations government even trying serve concededly praiseworthy goals perhaps congress extent restrict even manner speech cable operators cable programmers must compliance constitutional requirements requirements complied accordingly reverse judgment turner broadcasting system fcc justice ginsburg concurring part dissenting part substantially reasons stated circuit judge williams opinion dissenting district judgment dc conclude congress regime requires cable operators set aside channels local broadcast stations reflects unwarranted preference hypothesizes risk local stations remains imaginary therefore concur parts opinion join justice opinion concurring part dissenting part rules congress ordered differentiate basis viewpoint therefore fall category speech regulation government must avoid assiduously see paul stevens concurring judgment slip implicitly distinguished restrictions expression based subject matter restrictions based viewpoint indicating latter particularly rules however reflect content preference account demand close scrutiny turner broadcasting system fcc identified congress overriding objective enacting preservation television service unwilling unable subscribe cable remanded case airing centered allegedly overriding purpose ante intertwined even discrete justification render speculative reduce harmless surplus congress evident plan advance local programming see ante dissenting circuit judge williams stated congress rested decision promote local broadcast stations part quite explicitly finding content important source local news public affairs programming local broadcast services critical informed electorate quoting cable act