The Fairness Doctrine was an FCC policy introduced in 1949, that required the holders of broadcast licenses to both present controversial issues of public importance and to do so in a manner that was honest, equitable and balanced. The FCC eliminated the Doctrine in 1987 under Reagan. It's demise is believed to have contributed to the rising level of party polarization in the U.S.
"I would want...all stations to have to present a balanced perspective and different points of view. All I’m saying is that for many, many years we operated under a Fairness Doctrine in this country, and I think the country was well-served. I think the public discussion was at a higher level and more intelligent in those days than it has become since."
~ Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-NM) (10/22/08)