Are the big broadcast networks planning a local TV takeover? Some veteran media executives think so, and filings with the Federal Communications Commission suggest that the idea is very much top of mind in the C-suites … if the FCC lets them.

To be certain, the local TV station business is already in dealmaking mode, with FCC chairman Brendan Carr making no secret of his desire to “delete delete delete” regulations that hold back broadcasters.

Earlier this summer Byron Allen sold 10 of his TV stations for $171 million to Gray TV, and has another 18 stations on the market. E.W. Scripps and Gray engaged in a station swap of their own, expanding their local duopolies. Sinclair, led by CEO Chris Ripley, told shareholders on August 11 that it was launching a “comprehensive strategic review” o

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