Law

The proposed merger of the Sirius and XM appeared close to final approval Wednesday, with the sole undecided member of the FCC poised to support the deal if the companies settle past rules violations.

Attorney General Michael Mukasey calls a proposed shield law a solution in search of a problem, while advocate Rep. Mike Pence says it's a response to increasing erosion of freedom of the press.

At a forum Tuesday sponsored by the Minority Media & Telecommunications Council, former FCC Chairman William Kennard, speaking for Obama, and former Assistant Secretary of Commerce John Kneuer, speaking for McCain, offered sharply different views of the Federal Communications Commission's future under their candidates.

As the investigation of claims that KYW Philadelphia anchor Larry Mendte had hacked fellow anchor Alycia Lane's e-mail progressed, officials became convinced that the audacity, deviousness and scope of Mendte's alleged intrusions did warrant a felony charge of computer intrusion.

Two additional members of the FCC cast votes on the proposal to approve Sirius Satellite Radio Inc's acquisition of XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc, one voting for it and another against it, agency sources said on Tuesday.

Two prosecutors investigating allegations of bribery in the Republican state treasurer's race have subpoenaed KSL Salt Lake City footage of interviews with the candidates in the race and with House Speaker Greg Curtis.