10-28-13
The short run as FCC chair has come to an end for Commissioner Mignon Clyburn. Last night, as expected, the Senate unanimously confirmed Tom Wheeler as the next chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. Michael O?Rielly was also confirmed, to the other open slot on the commission. Wheeler said, Chairwoman Clyburn has led the Commission with dedication and vision for six months. We all owe Chairwoman Clyburn a huge thank you. The Chairwoman, along with Commissioners Rosenworcel and Pai and the FCC staff dealt with important issues that kept policy and the country moving forward."
Clyburn said, ?I congratulate Tom Wheeler and Michael O?Rielly on their Senate confirmations. Tom brings a tremendous depth of experience, talent, and knowledge that will serve him well as the leader of this critically important agency. I have no doubt that he will be an outstanding FCC Chairman. With his extensive public policy expertise and understanding of the communications landscape, Michael will certainly be an invaluable asset to the Commission. The FCC family enthusiastically welcomes both Tom and Michael. I look forward to working with them, along with my current colleagues at the Commission, to further communications policies that advance the public interest, bolster competition, empower consumers, and spur new waves of innovation that grow our economy and create jobs.?
NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith said, "NAB strongly supported the nominations of both Tom Wheeler and Michael O'Rielly and we are pleased with their confirmation. We also salute the superb job done by Mignon Clyburn during her tenure as acting chair. Broadcasters look forward to working with a full complement of commissioners in the months and years ahead. Local radio and TV stations will continue our evolution to new distribution platforms, mindful that broadcasting remains an indispensable source of news, entertainment and lifeline information to communities across America."
Wheeler was the president of the cable industry lobby 30 years ago and later led the lobbying group for the cellphone carriers. Recently he's has worked at venture capital firm Core Capital, investing in technology start-ups. Wheeler has been a supporter of President Obama since 2007. Wheeler replaces Julius Genachowski who stepped down in March after just under four years running the organization.
(10/29/2013 10:57:31 PM)
Jobs for the boys! This is a shock: another Washington insider swinging through the government-corporate revolving door. Can we get anyone in government who isn't tied to the private sector and up for dishing out favors? It appears not at this point.
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