Trump’s FCC pick Brendan Carr vows to dismantle net neutrality and take on Big Tech “censorship.”
At a Glance
- President-elect Trump selects Brendan Carr as new FCC Chairman
- Carr plans to repeal net neutrality and relax TV station ownership caps
- Focus shifts to addressing perceived bias in tech platforms and broadcast news
- Critics argue some of Carr’s proposals may exceed FCC authority
- Appointment signals potential major shift in telecom and tech regulation
Trump Taps Brendan Carr to Lead FCC
President-elect Donald Trump has chosen Brendan Carr to lead the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), marking a significant shift in the agency’s direction. Carr, the senior Republican at the FCC since his appointment in 2017, is set to replace outgoing Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, signaling a return to conservative policies in telecommunications regulation.
Trump praised Carr’s commitment to fighting regulatory overreach, stating, “Trump on Sunday said Carr has ‘fought against the regulatory Lawfare that has stifled Americans’ Freedoms and held back our Economy.’ ” The President-elect added, “He will end the regulatory onslaught that has been crippling America’s Job Creators and Innovators, and ensure that the FCC delivers for rural America.”
Carr’s Vision: Deregulation and Big Tech Accountability
Carr’s appointment signals a dramatic shift from the policies of the Rosenworcel-led FCC. He has been a vocal critic of net neutrality rules and has expressed intentions to repeal them once again. Additionally, Carr plans to relax TV station ownership caps and dismantle the agency’s focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
A key focus of Carr’s agenda is addressing perceived bias in broadcast news and content moderation on tech platforms. He has suggested changes to Section 230, which currently provides immunity to social media companies for user-generated content. This move aligns with conservative concerns about alleged censorship of right-wing viewpoints on major tech platforms.
Controversy and Criticism
Carr’s nomination has not been without controversy. His involvement with Project 2025, a policy document from the Heritage Foundation, has drawn scrutiny from Democrats. The document includes proposals to reinterpret Section 230, which some view as potentially overstepping the FCC’s authority.
Critics argue that some of Carr’s proposed changes may require congressional approval and could be outside the FCC’s jurisdiction. Tim Hanlon, a media industry analyst, suggests that “Carr’s bark is going to be worse than his bite,” implying that practical and legal constraints may limit the implementation of his more radical ideas.
Impact on Telecom and Tech Industries
The leadership change at the FCC is expected to have far-reaching implications for the telecom and tech industries. Carr’s support for LEO satellite technology, such as Starlink, could influence federal funding programs for broadband expansion. His stance on net neutrality and Big Tech regulation may lead to significant policy shifts, potentially altering the competitive landscape for internet service providers and content platforms.
As the FCC prepares for this transition, the telecom industry and tech giants are bracing for potential regulatory changes. While some, like the National Association of Broadcasters, support Carr’s nomination and his stance on holding Big Tech accountable, others are concerned about the potential for overreach and the impact on innovation and free speech.
.@JRosenworcel on the incoming chair: "From his time here, I am confident that Commissioner Carr is familiar with the staff, the responsibilities of this new role, and the importance of continued U.S. leadership in communications.” https://t.co/L4jcd2tOV4
— David Shepardson (@davidshepardson) November 18, 2024
