Most Americans Believe the FCC Shouldn't Monitor News Content

Nearly three-quarters of Americans believe it's not the government's job to monitor the content of its news organizations in the United States, according to a new poll released Wednesday.

In the face of a public backlash, the Federal Communications Commission has backed off a plan to determine if the news media are meeting the publics critical information needs.

Seventy-one percent of likely U.S. voters say it is not the governments role to monitor the content of news organizations in this country and 76 percent say they are at least somewhat concerned that the FCCs analysis of news content will lead to government efforts to control the news media or promote a political agenda.Of this number, 49 percent are very concerned.

Over three-quarters -- 76 percent -- also believe that with the Internet, cable networks, satellite radio, newspapers, radio and TV, it is possible for just about any political view and just about any news content to be found in todays media.

But 38 percent think the government should require all radio and television stations to offer an equal amount of conservative and liberal political commentary. Nearly half of voters -- 49 percent -- said they disagree with government-mandated equal commentary.

The national survey of 1,000 adults was conductedFeb. 22-23 by Rasmussen Reports.