SE Nebraska News

This week, U.S. Congressman Mike Flood delivered remarks on the House Floor on the 46th anniversary of C-SPAN's television operations. He praised C-SPAN's role in offering transparent coverage of U.S. House of Representatives activities since 1979.

In his speech, Congressman Flood emphasized C-SPAN's value as a "service that strengthens our democracy and fosters accountability." He noted that the network has been made possible through the voluntary support of America's cable and satellite providers, which fund C-SPAN as a nonprofit service.

Flood highlighted a significant issue affecting the accessibility of this service. "Millions of Americans are being denied access to this vital coverage because major TV streaming platforms like 'YouTube TV' and 'Hulu Plus Live TV' refuse to carry C-SPAN," he stated. He insisted that during a time when public trust in government is crucial, no company should impede public access to democratic processes.

In collaboration with U.S. Senator Ron Wyden, Congressman Flood had previously addressed a letter to streaming services such as FuboTV, Hulu, and YouTube TV, urging them to include C-SPAN in their offerings. In his speech, he reiterated this plea: "I urge 'YouTube TV,' 'Hulu Plus Live TV,' and all streaming providers to do the right thing: carry C-SPAN and give their customers the same access to government that cable and satellite viewers have."

A recording of Congressman Flood's speech is available for news outlets wishing to use the footage.