Central Missouri News

Today, Congressmen Mark Alford, Mike Flood, Brendan Boyle, and Darren Soto announced the launch of the Broadcasters Caucus for the 119th Congress. This bipartisan group aims to educate Congress members about challenges faced by broadcasters and highlight the importance of local radio and television stations.

Congressman Mark Alford expressed his pride in helping lead the caucus. "As a longtime TV news reporter, including anchoring Kansas City’s top morning news show for nearly twenty-five years, I’m proud to help lead the Broadcaster’s Caucus this Congress," he said. Alford emphasized their media experience provides insight into how public policy can impact local stations.

Congressman Flood highlighted the role of broadcast journalism in Middle America. "Broadcast journalism is the cornerstone of how Middle America receives its news," he stated. He noted that local stations connect communities to important news and stressed advocacy's critical role for broadcasters.

Congressman Brendan Boyle shared his enthusiasm for continuing the caucus' mission. "I helped start the Broadcasters Caucus five years ago to support the important work of our local radio and television stations," he remarked. Boyle acknowledged how Americans rely on local broadcasters for community and world news.

Congressman Darren Soto reflected on his leadership role in amplifying Central Florida's voices. "Helping lead the Broadcaster’s Caucus this Congress has been a privilege," he said, emphasizing fair representation for diverse communities.

NAB President Curtis LeGeyt expressed gratitude towards these lawmakers for relaunching the caucus. “NAB is grateful to Reps. Mark Alford (MO-04), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Mike Flood (NE-01) and Darren Soto (FL-09) for relaunching the Broadcasters Caucus in the 119th Congress,” LeGeyt stated, recognizing their acknowledgment of local TV and radio stations' vital roles.

Before joining Congress, each congressman had significant broadcasting industry involvement. Congressman Alford was a long-time Kansas City news anchor; Congressman Flood founded a broadcast communications company; Congressman Boyle worked as on-air talent and served as an analyst during college; Congressman Soto advocated consistently for local news providers.