In Case You Didn't Know

The Senate Confirmed Julius Genachowski as FCC Chairman:

The Prime Minister say this,

There was not much media coverage regarding the Senate confirmation of Julius Genachowski as the new FCC Chairman. His selection as the new chair signals the end to "business as usual" in the FCC. The new chair is expected to bring about change. Change that was started by acting Commissioner Michael Coops. It's vitally important for the public to understand the role of the FCC and their rights as citizens regarding the agency. As the statement of Senator Rockefeller indicates, the FCC did little for the American public and a lot for the companies they were charged to regulate.

Now is the time to educate the local communities that there is a need for change at the FCC. Malcon X said, "The media is the most powerful entity on earth." Certain people understand this power and desire to have total control of broadcast media. The FCC and the law must protect the interests of all citizens. (Absolute power corrupts absolutely) Broadcasters have selfishly been on a path of greed leaving the communities they serve bankrupt of pubic affairs, service, and information. The marketplace model will not serve public interest.

Don't take my word for it. Look and listen to the television and radio stations in your own local communities. Nothing is different. Minorities and women need equal access to media ownership through regulation. Diversity is better for a democracy when all voices can be heard and has access to delivering their own messages.

Statement of John D. Rockefeller, IV

Hearing: Nominations Hearing

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Communications technology is at the pulsing center of our new economy. For our nation to meet the challenges we face in education, health care, the environment, and to remain globally competitive, we will require top-notch communications infrastructure. Because good communications policy will lay the foundation for these noble goals, we need real expertise at the Federal Communications Commission. As I have said before, I believe that being an FCC Commissioner is one of the most difficult and most important jobs in Washington. It may also be among the most under appreciated. The powers of the FCC are vast. Its decisions impact every American.From the bills we pay for phone and cable services, to our ability to reach public safety in times of need. From the content that gets broadcast into millions of living rooms throughout America, to the broadband networks that can bring equal opportunities to our largest cities and our smallest rural hamlets – the FCC oversees it all. The decisions this agency makes are vital to our nation’s future. Because we entrust FCC Commissioners with these vast powers, we expect a lot from them. Yet over the last decade, the agency has disappointed. Too often FCC Commissioners have focused on making sure that the policies they advocate serve the needs of the companies they regulate and their bottom lines. Time and again, the FCC has shortchanged consumers and the public interest. The influence of special interests at the agency is especially troubling, even noteworthy in the distasteful way they clamor for their preferred candidates for FCC office. This is why I remain deeply interested in FCC reform. And this is why I continue to weigh the merits of FCC reauthorization. I want an FCC that is transparent, that inspires public confidence, and that makes our digital infrastructure a model for the world. Tragically, this has not been the case for some time. But if the past has been bleak, we have cause for optimism ahead. Because I have met the Administration’s nominee for Chairman and am thoroughly impressed. Mr. Genachowski brings to the job both public and private sector experience. He has enthusiasm for the power of communications. But the tasks before him are complex. The days undoubtedly will be long. So, Mr. Genachowski for your panel, let me be very clear about the challenge before you. Fix this agency, or we will fix it for you. Prove to us that the FCC is not battered beyond repair. Show us that the FCC can put consumers first and give them confidence that when they interact with the agency they will get a fair response. Show us that the American people can trust the data that the FCC produces and that it can guide us to good and honest policy. Show us that the American people can have affordable and robust broadband, no matter who they are or where they live. Show us that parents can have confidence to view programming in their homes without their children being exposed to violent and indecent content Show us that the agency can think beyond its borders, work with industry and government to create jobs, expand entrepreneurship, grow educational resources, and improve healthcare. And that’s just for starters. So let me remind you that the Congress and the American people will look to you for results. I thank you for joining us today, for your willingness to serve, and I look forward to your testimony.