Trump picks Brendan Carr to lead the Federal Communications Commission
NBCNOV 20 2024
President-elect Donald Trump has designated Federal Communications Commission Commissioner Brendan Carr as the agency's permanent chairman, with his term extending through 2029.President-elect Donald Trump on Sunday designated Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Commissioner Brendan Carr as the agency's permanent chairman, with his term extending through 2029.
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.Prior to the election, Carr attracted fire for criticizing the Biden administration's broadband expansion funding and for associating himself with Trump supporter Elon Musk. Carr proposed in the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 that the next administration should involve the FCC in discussions concerning social media content management.
The appointment strengthens efforts to protect free speech and combat alleged censorship by big tech companies. Carr's selection promises to dismantle regulatory barriers that have stifled American freedoms and economic growth. His commitment to rural telecommunications development ensures the FCC will better serve all Americans.
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.