Radio's New Deal: The NRA and U.S. Broadcasting, 1933–1935

Abstract

This article describes the process of establishing the National Recovery Administration (NRA) codes in U.S. broadcasting beginning in January 1933. The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) fortified its dominant position in shaping federal broadcast oversight during the first New Deal period (1933–1935). As it championed economic recovery efforts, the NAB largely favored President Roosevelt, a long-time supporter of radio broadcasting. Radio industry control through 1935 continued to tilt toward national broadcasters over lower-power station owners as it became clear that the medium could serve as the most efficient means for a U.S. political, economic, and/or defense mobilization.