In a contentious meeting on Thursday, January 18, members of the Senate Commerce Committee voted on seven administration nominees for various posts, including Brendan Carr’s re-nomination to the FCC. Committee Chairman John Thune (R-SD), clearly irritated, said before the votes there were “delay tactics” going on in the Senate. “It is my hope that this will be the final time this committee has to act on these nominees.” The action occurred as Congress was fighting, among other issues, over legislation to avoid a government shutdown tomorrow.
Ranking Member Bill Nelson (D-FL) characterized the seven as “quite an interesting bunch” of which “we have found to have considerable flaws.” He and several other Democrats objected to James Bridenstine being named NASA administrator, saying he has “no experience” leading large groups and a “history of divisiveness. It’s unfortunate that we’re here again having to reconsider nominees,” said Nelson.
Several Republicans came to Bridenstine’s defense. Mike Lee of Utah said “political considerations shouldn’t derail” the nomination. Ted Cruz of Texas noted this is the beginning of the second year in which NASA has had no top administrator.
Lawmakers proceeded to roll call votes for all the nominees. All passed by one vote 14-13. The outcome means the committee sends the nominees to the full Senate for confirmation.
The Wireless Infrastructure Association urged the Senate to act swiftly. WIA President/CEO Jonathan Adelstein said: “Carr has proven to be an outstanding leader who consistently promotes policies designed to improve America’s broadband networks – from the responsible deployment of wireless infrastructure to workforce development and training issues. His leadership on promoting jobs, wireless broadband deployment and the U.S. economy are exemplary and deserve recognition with the bipartisan support of the entire U.S. Senate.”
January 19, 2018
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