WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate has voted to confirm Anna Gomez to the FCC, breaking a longstanding tie between Republican and Democratic Party appointees that could allow the Commission to move forward on more of the Biden administration’s communication policies.
The Senate voted 55 to 43 mostly along party lines.
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, applauded her confirmation to be the fifth Commissioner, completing the Commission and unlocking the years-long 2-2 deadlock.
“Americans need an FCC that is fully equipped to expand access to affordable high-speed internet, protect and strengthen local news broadcasting, and promote spectrum innovation and emerging technologies,” said Sen. Cantwell. “With today’s bipartisan vote confirming Anna Gomez as its fifth commissioner, the FCC has gained an extremely qualified, thoughtful leader who will bring her expertise and consumer-focus to deliver on these priorities.”
In response to the Senate confirmation of Anna Gomez to the Federal Communications Commission, NAB president and CEO Curtis LeGeyt said “NAB congratulates Anna Gomez on her confirmation to the Federal Communications Commission. Her wealth of experience in telecommunications policy making will help the FCC address the critical issues facing radio and television broadcasters. NAB looks forward to working with Ms. Gomez and a fully seated Commission to provide the regulatory certainty, modernization and flexibility that will enable local broadcasting to thrive and enhance our service to tens of millions of American every day."
Gomez’s confirmation will make it easier for the FCC to move forward on such topics as net neutrality rules and a reclassification of virtual MVPDs.
Once sworn in, Gomez will become the first Latina to serve on the commission since Gloria Tristani stepped down from the agency in 2001.
Domingo Garcia, president League of United Latin American Citizens said "LULAC congratulates Commissioner Gomez on her appointment to the FCC at a time when historic advances in digital technology are being made, and Latinos must be at the table when these decisions are made. Her skills and experience have earned Ms. Gomez this position, and LULAC is poised and ready to work with her on the critical issues at hand which the FCC oversees."
