Olivia Trusty Nominated for FCC Commissioner to Strengthen Republican Majority and Boost Broadband Investment

American flag with Republican elephant symbol.

President-elect Trump nominates Olivia Trusty for FCC Commissioner, solidifying Republican control and promising major 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 aims to cut regulations, protect free speech, and expand affordable internet access
  • Industry leaders praise Trusty’s expertise and potential impact on broadband investment

Trump Nominates Olivia Trusty for FCC Commissioner

President-elect Donald Trump has announced his nomination of Olivia Trusty for the position of FCC Commissioner, a move set to establish a Republican majority at the agency. 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.

Trump’s decision to nominate Trusty aligns with his administration’s goals of fostering economic growth and promoting innovation in the telecommunications sector. The President-elect expressed confidence in Trusty’s abilities, stating:

“she has fought tirelessly to grow the Economy, empower Innovation, and reignite the American Dream” – Trump

Reshaping the FCC Leadership

Alongside Trusty’s nomination, Trump has selected Brendan Carr, the senior Republican commissioner at the FCC, as the new chairman. This change in leadership comes as Democrat Jessica Rosenworcel, the outgoing FCC chairwoman, prepares to exit with the transition to the new administration. If confirmed, Trusty’s appointment would result in a 3-2 GOP majority at the FCC, potentially ushering in significant policy shifts.

“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” – Trump

Trusty’s Extensive Background in Telecommunications

Trusty’s career in telecommunications policy is both extensive and impressive. She has previously worked with U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker and Rep. Bob Latta, and served on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce’s Subcommittee on Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection. Her experience extends beyond government roles, including positions as a consultant for Verizon and a policy representative at Qwest.

Trusty’s educational background further reinforces her qualifications for the role. She holds a master’s degree in American government from Georgetown University and a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Industry Support for Trusty’s Nomination

The nomination has received strong support from key players in the telecommunications industry. Comcast chief legal officer Tom Reid praised Trusty’s expertise, stating:

“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, an organization representing small and midsize cable and telecom operators, has also voiced support for Trusty’s nomination. Grant Spellmeyer, president and CEO of ACA Connects, highlighted Trusty’s accomplishments and expressed eagerness to work with her and Chairman Carr to promote innovation and empower broadband providers, particularly in rural communities.

As the confirmation process unfolds, industry stakeholders and policymakers alike will be watching closely to see how Trusty’s potential appointment may reshape the regulatory landscape of the telecommunications sector under the new administration.

Sources:

  1. Donald Trump Nominates Republican Senate Staffer Olivia Trusty as FCC Commissioner
  2. Trump nominates Olivia Trusty for FCC commissioner as agency would gain Republican control