Following last week’s ending of Republican majorities in both houses of Congress, the politically-appointed leadership of Washington DC’s innumerable committees and sub-committees being overhauled.

The FCC may be escaping relatively unscathed. Yesterday saw its Chairman re-appointed before the full changing of the guard had taken place in Congress.

Martin said today, "I am deeply honoured to have been confirmed by the Senate for a second term as Commissioner and Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission. I thank President Bush and the Congress for the privilege to continue to serve in his Administration and alongside my colleagues on the Commission.
I look forward to working with the Administration and Congress, as well as with my fellow Commissioners and the incredibly able staff at the FCC to ensure that all Americans share in the benefits and opportunities offered by the best communications system in the world. I will continue to work to provide a regulatory environment that promotes competition and drives investment and innovation while protecting consumers and promoting public safety."

Herschel Abbott, BellSouth VP of governmental affairs, said on news of yesterday’s appointment: “Mr. Martin has improved the processes at the FCC, which has resulted in public interest gains for consumers.  His willingness and ability to tackle difficult issues that need to be dealt with has been a hallmark of his chairmanship. Under his leadership the FCC has eliminated unnecessary broadband regulations while maintaining strong consumer protections, with the result that broadband has exploded and DSL prices have declined. He brings enormous knowledge and skill to the position as well as a fertile and productive mind.His decisions have been equitable and balanced. We look forward to continuing to work with him."

So everybody’s happy? Yes, apart those who question the old-carrier stranglehold on issues like broadband and net neutrality. These may make Chairman Martin’s future relationship with the Congress a tad less comfortable.
Jim Chalmers