Commissioner Brendan Carr Appointed New FCC Chair

RADIO ONLINE | Monday, January 20, 2025 | 6:38pm CT

Brendan Carr

President Donald J. Trump appoints Commissioner Brendan Carr as the new Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), formalized through an executive order on Monday. Carr, who has been an integral part of the FCC since 2017 and previously served as the agency's General Counsel, expressed his gratitude for this new leadership role.

In his acceptance statement, Carr remarked, "I am deeply grateful to President Trump for the honor to serve as Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. My years at the FCC, including time as the General Counsel, have prepared me for the responsibilities and challenges of this new position."

Chairman Carr shared his strategic vision for the FCC, which includes enhancing broadband deployment and securing the integrity of the nation's communications infrastructure. He emphasized the importance of fostering an environment that nurtures innovation and economic growth. Carr also addressed the critical role of the FCC in national security, underscoring the necessity of safeguarding communication networks against emerging threats.

His appointment has elicited varied responses. Supporters point to his extensive experience and previous achievements at the FCC as indicators of his potential to effectively lead the agency. During his tenure, Carr played a pivotal role in deregulatory initiatives that helped advance 5G technology. Critics, however, are wary of his connections with influential tech leaders and his past policies that they fear may prioritize corporate interests over consumer rights.

Adding to his credentials, Carr, a seasoned member of the FCC, was renominated by President Trump for a full five-year term in 2018. He boasts a long background in communications policy, having worked as a telecommunications attorney and serving as a legal advisor on various telecommunications matters before his appointments at the FCC.

Chairman Carr concluded with a forward-looking statement, expressing eagerness to propel the FCC's initiatives forward and to collaborate with the Trump administration, his FCC colleagues, and other stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes for the American public.