The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has launched an investigation into Comcast and NBCUniversal’s diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. This development follows an executive order issued by President Donald Trump in January 2025, which aims to dismantle DEI programs across corporate America and government institutions. The decision has sparked intense debate, with some supporting the initiative while others challenge its legality and implications.

On February 11, 2025, FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, appointed by President Trump in late 2024, formally notified Comcast of the inquiry. The investigation focuses on Comcast’s DEI policies, including leadership training programs, specialized DEI events, and executive roles dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. Carr justified the probe by arguing that Comcast’s emphasis on DEI as a core business value may conflict with federal regulations.

Comcast, as one of the world’s largest media companies, holds a significant position in the industry. Its vast portfolio includes broadband, mobile services, television networks, streaming platforms like Peacock, Universal Pictures, and theme parks. Given its influence, the outcome of this investigation could serve as a major test case for how Trump’s executive order is applied across industries.

The FCC is not unanimous in its stance on this issue. Commissioner Geoffrey Starks strongly opposed the investigation, raising concerns over whether the agency has the authority to scrutinize corporate hiring policies and inclusion efforts. Starks argued that the FCC’s primary role is regulating communications and fostering market competition, not enforcing executive orders on corporate diversity programs. He called for a legal briefing to clarify the agency’s jurisdiction in this matter. Conversely, Carr defended the probe, stating that corporate DEI programs may be shaping company policies in ways that contradict FCC regulations. His position aligns closely with the Trump administration’s broader push against DEI initiatives, which it claims contribute to workplace biases.

The effects of this investigation extend beyond Comcast and NBCUniversal. Other major media corporations are already reassessing their DEI programs in response to increased scrutiny. Disney, for instance, has begun modifying its workplace policies and performance evaluations to align with the changing regulatory landscape. Meanwhile, PBS has gone a step further by dismantling its DEI office entirely to comply with the new federal directive. These shifts illustrate the substantial impact of Trump’s executive order, prompting companies to either redefine or eliminate diversity initiatives amid growing governmental pressure.

In response to the FCC’s inquiry, Comcast has pledged full cooperation while reaffirming its commitment to inclusivity. In a brief statement, the company emphasized its dedication to maintaining a diverse workplace, though it remains unclear whether the investigation will result in penalties or adjustments to its current DEI programs.

The outcome of this probe could set a critical precedent for corporate diversity policies under the Trump administration. As the debate over DEI continues to unfold, businesses across various sectors will be watching closely to determine how to navigate evolving regulations. With legal experts, industry leaders, and advocacy groups weighing in, the broader implications of this investigation may shape corporate inclusion efforts in the years to come.