Trump Set to Unveil New Cabinet Picks This Week, Including FCC Chair Brendan Carr

The appointment of Brendan Carr as the chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) by President Donald Trump marks a significant shift in the agency's direction. As Carr steps into his new role, he brings with him a vision for restructuring the FCC and responding to the evolving landscape of technology and communication in the United States.

Background of Brendan Carr

Brendan Carr has had a notable career within the FCC, having served as one of its five commissioners since 2017. His appointment to the commission came during Trump's first administration, and he previously held the position of the agency's general counsel. This experience positions Carr as someone with a deep understanding of FCC operations and regulations.

The Role of the FCC

While the FCC may not be a household name to many Americans, its responsibilities are critical to the country's communication infrastructure. The agency enforces communications laws, administers programs to enhance access to high-speed internet, and regulates various communication services, including satellite internet access. Under Carr's leadership, the FCC is poised to prioritize new initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges posed by large technology companies and foreign telecommunication firms, particularly those based in China.

Reining in Big Tech

In his chapter in Project 2025, Carr emphasized the need for a fresh approach to dealing with major tech companies like Google and Meta. He argued that these corporations not only exert market power but also abuse their dominant positions, effectively influencing various aspects of consumers' lives. Carr advocates for limiting the immunity granted to tech companies under Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, which currently protects them from liability for user-generated content. He also seeks to enhance transparency regarding algorithm changes and decisions to block or demonetize users, holding tech companies accountable for their actions.

Moreover, Carr's alignment with Elon Musk has raised eyebrows. Musk's Starlink satellite internet service stands to benefit from federal funding, and Carr's criticism of the revocation of a significant grant to Starlink sheds light on his stance towards government treatment of individuals in the tech sector. Carr's call for equitable treatment from the government signifies his commitment to ensuring fairness in federal dealings, regardless of an individual's prominence.

Concerns Over Chinese Influence

Carr has also voiced concerns about the potential risks posed to U.S. national security by Chinese-owned businesses, particularly TikTok. His acknowledgment of TikTok's threat to U.S. security aligns with the Biden administration's stance on the matter, as President Biden signed a law requiring TikTok to be sold or face a ban in the U.S. Carr's views on Chinese telecom and tech firms operating in the U.S. signal a proactive approach to safeguarding national security and ensuring the integrity of American communication infrastructure.

The Broadcasting Landscape

In addition to his focus on technology, Carr has not shied away from addressing the broadcasting landscape. He has criticized certain broadcasters, including CBS News, echoing Trump's allegations of political bias. Carr's commitment to enforcing laws that mandate broadcasters to operate in the public interest underscores his intention to uphold ethical standards within the broadcasting industry. However, these claims have drawn scrutiny from various parties, with critics expressing concerns about potential politicization of the FCC under Carr's leadership.

Support and Criticism

The reactions to Carr's appointment as FCC Chairman have been polarized. Trump lauded Carr as "a warrior for Free Speech," emphasizing his commitment to upholding the principles of freedom of expression. Meanwhile, fellow FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks, a Democrat, recognized Carr as a proficient public servant and a distinguished leader on pressing commission issues. However, some critics have flagged certain aspects of Carr's stance, particularly his relationship with Musk and his approach to broadcasters. The nonpartisan public interest group Free Press raised concerns about Carr's perceived alignment with Musk and his handling of broadcasting issues, questioning the integrity of Carr's positions on free speech.