Disney has petitioned the Federal Communications Commission to classify ABC's daytime talk show "The View" as exempt from federal equal time broadcasting requirements that apply to political content.

In a recent filing with the agency, Disney argued that "The View" qualifies as a "bona fide" news program under federal law. The company compared the show to Sunday news programs in making its case for the exemption.

The equal time rule requires broadcast stations to provide equivalent airtime opportunities to political candidates when one candidate appears on their programming. However, certain categories of programming, including legitimate news shows, are exempt from this requirement.

The FCC has opened the matter for public comment, asking for opinions on whether the show's editorial decisions are "based on newsworthiness." This classification would determine whether "The View" must adhere to equal time provisions during political seasons.

"The View," which features a panel of hosts discussing current events and interviewing guests, has long been a platform for political commentary and candidate appearances. The show's classification as either entertainment or news programming has regulatory implications for how ABC must handle political content and candidate access.