Trump picks Brendan Carr to lead the Federal Communications Commission
NBCNOV 20 2024
Carr, who has served at the FCC since 2012, previously worked as an advisor to former Chairman Ajit Pai and as the commission's general counsel before receiving his commissioner nomination in 2017.
The incoming chairman's Senate confirmation process demonstrated rare bipartisan support, securing unanimous approval on three separate occasions for his commissioner role.
Before joining the FCC, Carr worked as an attorney specializing in appellate litigation and regulatory matters, and clerked for Judge Dennis Shedd on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
The appointment raises concerns about potential political interference in media regulation and broadcasting licenses. The FCC's independence could be compromised by Carr's involvement in Project 2025, a conservative policy blueprint for a second Trump term. His recent criticism of tech companies suggests a partisan approach to regulation.