4 Networks Reject Ad Opposing Bush on Lawsuits

Congratulations to CNN for going against the grain and accepting an advocacy advertisement. According to The New York Times, the four major networks - ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox - all refused to run an advertisement by a group called USAction opposing Bush's plans to restrirct medical malpractice suits.

The group wanted to run the advocacy ads just before tonight's State of the Union speech, but the four networks refused. I have trouble understanding how networks broadcasting under license over the federal airwaves can refuse advertising that pertains to current issues. If I can watch a commercial for Viagra or McDonald's or Budweiser, why can't I watch an ad on an issue I might even care about, and the nation may even need to debate?