“Our objective throughout this process has been to ensure that programming remains accurate and engaging for the widest possible audience,” Sinclair told Variety in a statement.

“We take seriously our responsibility as local broadcasters to provide programming that serves the interests of our communities, while also honoring our obligations to air national network programming,” Sinclair added.

Sinclair made the decision after “thoughtful feedback from viewers, advertisers, and community leaders representing a wide range of perspectives,” and a shooting at an ABC affiliate station in Sacramento.

“These events underscore why responsible broadcasting matters and why respectful dialogue between differing voices remains so important,” it said.

The company said it “proposed measures” such as a “network-wide independent ombudsman” in discussions with ABC, but the network and Disney have not yet “adopted” the actions. It added that the decision to put the program off the air “was independent of any government interaction or influence.”

“While we understand that not everyone will agree with our decisions about programming, it is simply inconsistent to champion free speech while demanding that broadcasters air specific content,” they added.

“As a company rooted in local stations, Sinclair remains committed to serving our communities with programming that reflects their priorities, earns their trust, and promotes constructive dialogue. We look forward to continuing to work with ABC to deliver content that serves a broad spectrum of our communities,” the statement concluded.

Kimmel said days after Kirk’s Sept. 10 assassination that the “MAGA gang” was trying to score political points over the suspect charged with the murder of Kirk. Two days later, Sinclair preempted Kimmel’s program, and ABC said it was suspending the program “indefinitely” on Sept. 17.

Less than a week later, on Sept. 23, Disney brought Kimmel’s program back to its highest-rated episode ever.

Sinclair previously said it would require “a meaningful personal donation” to Kirk’s family members, as well as Turning Point USA, before it would put Kimmel back on its air. It’s unknown if Kimmel listened to their demands.

President Donald Trump appeared upset at ABC’s decision to bring back Kimmel’s program and suggested he would sue it.

KIMMEL VIEWERSHIP SOARS TO 6 MILLION IN COMEBACK SHOW

“I can’t believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back,” Trump wrote. “The White House was told by ABC that his Show was cancelled! Something happened between then and now because his audience is GONE, and his ‘talent’ was never there.

“I Think we’re going to test ABC out on this. Let’s see how we do. Last time I went after them, they gave me $16 Million Dollars. This one sounds even more lucrative. A true bunch of losers! Let Jimmy Kimmel rot in his bad Ratings,” he added.