Brendan Carr is set to take charge of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) after being nominated by President-elect Donald Trump. The FCC is the government agency that regulates things like internet access, TV, and radio in the U.S.
Even though most people might not think about the FCC much, it plays an important role in making sure everyone has access to things like high-speed internet and oversees things like satellite internet. Under Carr’s leadership, the FCC may focus on new priorities, like going after big tech companies and Chinese telecom firms.
Carr, who has been with the FCC since 2017, believes it’s time for a change. In a policy document called Project 2025, he outlined four major goals he wants to tackle during his time as FCC Chair.
One of his main focuses is on big tech companies like Google and Meta, which he believes have too much control over the information we see online. He wants to limit their power and make them more accountable for how they handle online speech and censorship.
Carr also has strong opinions about Elon Musk. He’s been critical of the way the government treated Musk’s company, Starlink, which provides satellite internet. Carr believes that the government shouldn’t treat people differently based on who they are, and he wants to make sure everyone gets a fair chance at federal grants and support.
When it comes to companies from China, Carr is worried about their influence on U.S. security. He’s especially concerned about TikTok, which he thinks could be used by China to spread influence in the U.S. He agrees with some of the actions the Biden administration has taken to deal with TikTok, including the possibility of banning the app.
Carr has also spoken out about TV broadcasters, like CBS News, accusing them of showing political bias. He’s particularly upset about a skit on Saturday Night Live that poked fun at Kamala Harris during the election.
Carr wants to make sure broadcasters follow the rules and operate in the public interest, even though some people criticize his approach as too harsh.
While some people see Carr as a strong advocate for free speech, others are worried about his stance on issues like net neutrality and online speech.
Critics like Free Press and Fight for the Future worry that Carr’s leadership might lead to more government control over what we can say and see online. They also think his connection to Musk and his views on broadcasters might cause problems.
Carr’s appointment as FCC Chair could lead to some major changes, especially when it comes to how the government interacts with tech companies and what they can and can’t do online. Whether or not you agree with his ideas, it’s clear that Carr’s leadership will be a big shift for the FCC.