CREW Congratulates July's Scoundrel(s) of the Month: Rupert Murdoch and News Corp

While one contender forced congressional staff to work on her campaign, she was no match for another who led a company that systematically invaded the private lives of thousands of people.

Media mogul Rupert Murdoch and his News Corp. have triumphed in the race to be named CREW’s Scoundrel of July. Rep. Laura Richardson (D-CA) also a received dishonorable mention from the online electorate.

“One would think it would be hard to top a senator with an affinity for bribery and prostitutes, but the reprehensible behavior displayed by Mr. Murdoch and News Corp. is beyond the pale,” said CREW Executive Director Melanie Sloan.

CREW Asks Congress to Investigate Murdoch's FCC Licenses

Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW) sent a letter to the House and Senate Commerce Committees asking for hearings into whether James and Rupert Murdoch meet the character standards set out by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to retain their 27 Fox broadcast licenses.  Under the law, broadcast frequencies may be used only by people of good “character,” who will serve “the public interest,” and speak with “candor.” Significant character deficiencies may warrant disqualification from holding a license.  Click here to read CREW’s letter.[pdf]

CREW Executive Director Melanie Sloan stated, “Given all the underhanded, devious and illegal activities of News. Corp, combined with James Murdoch’s failure to be candid when he testified before a parliamentary committee, it seems evident the Murdochs don’t meet the FCC’s character standard.”