Many wireless industry trade associations, and broadcasters, reacted positively to the news that President Donald Trump intends to nominate Brendan Carr to fill the empty GOP Commissioner slot at the FCC. Carr is currently the FCC’s general counsel and was on the short list for the position, Inside Towers recently reported. Previously Carr was on FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s staff as an advisor for wireless, public safety and international items.
Pai highlighted Carr’s “distinguished” record of public service in his five plus years at the agency. CTIA President/CEO and former FCC Commissioner Meredith Attwell Baker characterized Carr as “an accomplished and talented attorney who understands the importance of wireless to consumers and the U.S. economy.”
“Carr’s extensive background navigating complex wireless and public safety issues during his previous roles at the agency will serve him well as he prepares to assume the final open seat available on the Commission,” said National Association of Tower Erectors Executive Director Todd Schlekeway. Wireless Infrastructure Association President/CEO and former Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein said Carr “has established himself as a thought leader who consistently promotes policies designed to improve America’s broadband networks.”
USTelecom CEO Jonathan Spalter said Carr’s “wealth of telecommunications experience” will help the agency protect consumers while adopting policies that encourage more broadband innovation and investment. Carr’s “understanding of the importance of spectrum, Universal Service Fund support and competition issues will allow him to hit the ground running as Commissioner,” said Competitive Carriers Association President/CEO Steve Berry.
NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association CEO Shirley Bloomfield said Carr’s experience in the private sector and in a variety of roles at the FCC “will enable him to hit the ground running on a range of issues from addressing consumer needs for broadband to promoting effective and efficient investment in networks.” NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith said Carr “has a firm grasp on telecom and media law and the right temperament to be a superb Commissioner.”
All industry associations hoped for swift Senate confirmation of both Carr and Jessica Rosenworcel. Trump previously announced he’d re-nominate Rosenworcel to the FCC to fill the remaining open Democratic slot; she left in December after her term ended and the Senate didn’t act on her previous re-nomination. Carr’s nomination brings the Commission back to its full complement of five Commissioners once the Senate acts.
June 30, 2017
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