[Arkay]

Reading this thread --especially the last few posts-- reminds me of one of those sci-fi movie scenes where aliens (or nuclear disaster if you go back far enough) are wiping out the Earth's communications, and all the channels go to 'snow'... it sounds like some apocalyptic "beginning of the end"...

It will be very interesting to see what happens in reaction to this, and how the media covers it. Even if there are riots, you might not hear about it. There have been several major protest marches in major cities involving thousands of people in America in the past year that never made it onto any mainstream media. It depends on whether they deem the issue "worth covering", and that may be a political decision. Since it is television stations doing most of the news reporting, they may be reluctant to cover protests which are likely to be (at least partly) directed at them (by people who don't know any better). But some radio stations and newspapers should cover any difficulties; word should get around, as this shouldn't be deemed too political.

My guess is there will be some grumblings, but nothing too major. Most people have cable now anyway, and many of the others either have a set-top box or will quickly get one. Relatively few will actually protest, beyond grumbling with their neighbors or friends, although I would HOPE that MANY would/will. I'd smile and laugh with great joy to see tens of thousands of protesters in every major city, forcing them to rescind this decision. But I don't believe it will happen.