Reagan would tell Americans to watch this Netflix merger hearing closely — here's why

Congress examines Netflix Warner Bros merger Tuesday, weighing American jobs and national security against foreign influence in media industry battle.

In today’s world, influence is power. When American content is weakened, something else fills the void—and increasingly, that content is shaped or approved by authoritarian governments. Ben Ferguson is a nationally syndicated talk radio host and author. He is the host of "The Ben Ferguson Podcast" and the co-host of "Verdict with Ted Cruz," one of the top-ranked political podcasts in the country.

This matters to everyday Americans because media is no longer just entertainment. It shapes public opinion, exports American values, and serves as a counterweight to authoritarian propaganda. When U.S. companies are weakened, foreign governments—especially China—fill the void.

Decisions made Tuesday on Capitol Hill will help determine whether American storytelling remains independent and secure, or whether foreign influence gains even more ground inside one of America’s most powerful strategic assets.