A federal judge has halted Nexstar's proposed $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, putting the merger at risk. The judge stated that the transaction would diminish competition and violate antitrust laws. However, he extended the temporary restraining order until April 21, 2026. This decision is a defeat for both the companies and the Trump administration, which approved the transaction shortly after it closed. California's Attorney General, Rob Bonta, called the merger "illegal, plain and simple". If allowed to proceed, the Nexstar-Tegna transaction would create a broadcast station behemoth with 259 stations reaching about 80% of the country. The company is expected to appeal the ruling once it takes effect next week.