White House Nominates Rosenworcel, Ajit to FCC

RADIO ONLINE | Tuesday, November 1, 2011 | 11:53pm CT

President Obama has nominated Jessica Rosenworcel and Ajit Pai to become FCC Commissioners. The five-member panel has two slots open, one Republican and one Democratic. When confirmed, the Commission will have a 3-2 Democratic majority under Chairman Julius Genachowski.

Rosenworcel is Senior Communications Counsel for the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. Pai is a former FCC adviser. Rosenworcel will succeed Michael Copps, whose term expires at the end of the year. Pai would take the slot vacated by Meredith Attwell Baker.

FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said in a statement, "In nominating Jessica Rosenworcel and Ajit Pai as FCC Commissioners, President Obama made two outstanding choices for the Commission and for the American people. Given their talent, leadership and expertise in our space, they would both play an invaluable role at the FCC."

NAB President/CEO Gordon Smith commented, "NAB congratulates Ajit Pai and Jessica Rosenworcel -- two talented individuals with a commitment to public service -- for their nomination to the FCC."

"I welcome President Obama's nominations...and look forward to returning to a five member Commission," said FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell. "I had the pleasure of working with Jessica when she served in the Office of Commissioner Mike Copps and recently while she worked for the Senate Commerce Committee. She is a tireless public servant who, if confirmed, will be an asset to our discussions at the FCC."