Disney urges YouTube TV to restore ABC for Election Day coverage amid blackout

Disney on Monday urged YouTube TV to restore ABC and its other broadcast channels for Election Day coverage amid the streaming platform's blackout on them.

“Despite the impasse that led to the current blackout, we have asked YouTube TV to restore ABC for Election Day so subscribers have access to the information they rely on,” Disney said Monday, The Hill news outlet reported. “We believe in putting the public interest first and hope YouTube TV will take this small step for their customers while we continue to work toward a fair agreement.”

ABC, ESPN, and other Disney-owned channels have been blacked out on YouTube TV, which the streaming platform explained in its most recent statement that it was for “advocating for fair pricing” to offer its customers “the best TV experience.”

The blackout threatens to extend into a second week as the two companies have failed to reach an agreement on carrier fees.

“Our contract with Disney has reached its renewal date, and we’ll not agree to terms that disadvantage our members while benefiting Disney’s TV products,” YouTube TV said. “We know how disruptive it is to lose channels you enjoy, and we’re committed to continuing to work with Disney to reach an agreement.”

ABC is planning expansive coverage of Tuesday’s elections, including gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia, and the New York City mayoral race.