New York Taxis Could Face Legal Backlash Over Newsmax Censorship Attempt

According to journalist Matt Taibbi, any attempt by New York City officials to block Newsmax from appearing on digital screens in city taxis would likely violate the First Amendment.

In a statement, Taibbi argued that such an action would constitute unconstitutional viewpoint discrimination. “When the government gives anything of benefit to any group or person and then denies it to someone else based on their opinions or speech, that’s a violation of the First Amendment,” he said.

The controversy arose after Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal sent a letter urging city officials to pressure a taxi media provider to stop carrying Newsmax programming. Hoylman-Sigal claimed Newsmax provides “politically charged content” and should not be considered a credible news outlet.

Newsmax, which recently partnered with Curb to deliver updates on in-cab television systems nationwide, including about 9,000 vehicles in New York City, has responded by stating the move is an act of censorship targeting a news organization that reaches over 50 million Americans regularly.