Reactions to Pai Reconfirmation Divided Between Supporters, Opponents of 2015 Net Neutrality Rules
Reactions to Senate reconfirmation of FCC Chairman Ajit Pai divided between supporters of a proposal to rescind 2015 net neutrality rules, who praised the vote, and those who favor keeping the rules, who overwhelmingly criticized it. The Senate voted 52-41…
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to confirm Pai, with four Democrats joining Republicans in voting for the chairman (see 1710020062). Fight for the Future, a 2015 rules supporter, launched a phone campaign Tuesday targeting the four Democrats who voted for Pai (see 1710030065). “The only people celebrating today’s vote are top executives at the phone and cable companies Ajit Pai so eagerly serves,” said Free Press CEO Craig Aaron. Public Knowledge Vice President Chris Lewis tweeted thanks to the 41 Democrats who voted against Pai, saying “we need more to stand up for [net neutrality], rural broadband & other issues at risk.” Many companies and industry groups Monday and Tuesday lauded Pai's confirmation, including 5G Americas, America's Public Television Stations, AT&T, Comcast, Frontier Communications, ITTA, Verizon and WiFiForward. NCTA CEO Michael Powell said Pai “has consistently demonstrated a thoughtful approach to policymaking that promotes consumer welfare through marketplace competition and innovation.” CTA President Gary Shapiro said Pai's “emphasis on promoting competition, innovation and flexibility will help ensure a thoughtful policy approach as the commission addresses expanded broadband access, digital opportunity for all Americans and the anytime, anywhere connectivity consumers demand.” NAB appreciates "his effort to ease outdated regulatory burdens on local radio and TV” (see 1710030059), said President Gordon Smith.