Rosenworcel: FCC Decisions Should Not Be Politically Motivated

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to take office next month. Outgoing FCC Chair Jessice Rosenworcel has emphasized that the FCC's decisions should be based on records, facts, and law, rather than political influence. In an interview, Rosenworcel highlighted the importance of the FCC's independence for its global credibility.

Broadcasters have condemned Trump's threats to revoke licenses over disagreements with news coverage. Trump previously called for ABC to lose its FCC licenses after accusing the network of bias during a debate with Vice President Kamala Harris. He labeled ABC New as "the most dishonest" organization.

Rosenworcel's concerns reflect broader worries about political influence in regulatory decisions and the potential impact on free speech and media independence

Incoming Chair Brendan Carr (right) has expressed his intention to address declining media trust and revisit broadcasters' public interest obligations. He mentioned that "broadcast licenses are not sacred cows," suggesting potential license revocations for those failing to meet these standards2.

Jessica Rosenworcel, in response, emphasized the importance of the First Amendment, stating that the FCC should not threaten broadcast licenses or undermine free speech online4. She also highlighted the growing risks posed by artificial intelligence, including voice-cloning scams used in political interference.

During her tenure, Rosenworcel proposed a rule requiring broadcasters to disclose AI use in political ads, aiming for transparency similar to the Commission's existing rules on AI-driven robocalls6. However, this proposal faced opposition from Republicans, including Carr, making its future uncertain.