President-elect Donald Trump nominates Olivia Trusty as FCC Commissioner, solidifying Republican control of the agency and setting the stage for significant changes in telecommunications policy.
At a Glance
- Trump nominates Olivia Trusty as FCC Commissioner, giving Republicans a 3-2 majority
- Trusty brings extensive experience from Senate committees and telecommunications industry
- Nomination praised by industry leaders, anticipating focus on broadband infrastructure and deregulation
- Brendan Carr selected as new FCC Chairman, replacing outgoing Democrat Jessica Rosenworcel
Trump’s Strategic FCC Nomination
President-elect Donald Trump has made a significant move in shaping the future of telecommunications policy by nominating Olivia Trusty as the new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Commissioner. This nomination, if confirmed, will secure a Republican majority at the agency, potentially ushering in a new era of deregulation and focus on broadband infrastructure development.
Trusty, currently serving as the policy director on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and a professional staff member on the Senate Armed Services Committee, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Her background in government relations and the telecommunications industry positions her as a knowledgeable candidate for addressing the complex challenges facing the FCC.
Trump’s Vision for the FCC
President-elect Trump has expressed high expectations for Trusty’s role at the FCC. In his announcement, Trump highlighted Trusty’s dedication to economic growth and innovation.
“she has fought tirelessly to grow the Economy, empower Innovation, and reignite the American Dream” – Donald Trump
Trump also outlined his vision for the FCC under the new leadership, emphasizing deregulation, free speech protection, and improved internet access:
“Olivia will work with our incredible new Chairman of the FCC, Brendan Carr, to cut regulations at a record pace, protect Free Speech, and ensure every American has access to affordable and fast internet” – Donald Trump
Donald Trump Says He Will Nominate Olivia Trusty To Serve On FCC https://t.co/z0Wi0h37gF
— Deadline (@DEADLINE) January 16, 2025
Industry Support and Expectations
Trusty’s nomination has garnered support from major players in the telecommunications industry. Comcast’s chief legal officer, Tom Reid, praised Trusty’s expertise in communications policy and expressed optimism about working with her to address crucial communication needs, including broadband investment and deregulation.
“Olivia Trusty’s extensive knowledge of communications policy makes her an exceptional choice as FCC Commissioner. We look forward to working with her and with the full FCC to address the nation’s crucial communication needs including broadband investment and deregulation. We applaud President-elect Trump on this strong choice.” – Tom Reid
ACA Connects, representing small and midsize cable and telecom operators, also voiced support for Trusty’s nomination. The organization’s president and CEO, Grant Spellmeyer, highlighted Trusty’s accomplishments and expressed eagerness to collaborate with her and Chairman Carr to promote innovation, particularly in rural communities, and empower broadband providers.
Trump nominates Olivia Trusty for FCC commissioner as agency would gain Republican control https://t.co/5HL4geetY5
— FOX Business (@FoxBusiness) January 17, 2025
Implications for Telecommunications Policy
With Trusty’s nomination and the appointment of Brendan Carr as the new FCC Chairman, the agency is poised for a shift in policy direction. The Republican majority is expected to prioritize deregulation efforts, potentially rolling back some of the regulations implemented during the previous administration. This could have significant implications for net neutrality rules, broadband classification, and the overall regulatory landscape for telecommunications companies.
As the confirmation process unfolds, stakeholders across the telecommunications industry will be closely watching to see how Trusty’s appointment may shape the future of broadband infrastructure development, internet access initiatives, and the regulatory environment for both established players and emerging technologies in the communications sector.
Sources:
- Donald Trump Nominates Republican Senate Staffer Olivia Trusty as FCC Commissioner
- Trump nominates Olivia Trusty for FCC commissioner as agency would gain Republican control
