Olivia Trusty, nominated by President Donald Trump to serve as a commissioner die thw FCC, is scheduled to appear before the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation for her confirmation hearing on Wednesday, at 10:00 AM Eastern.
This hearing marks a key step in her nomination process, as the Senate will evaluate her qualifications and suitability to fill the vacant FCC seat previously held by Jessica Rosenworcel, who stepped down on January 20, 2025.
If confirmed, Trusty would provide Republicans with a 3-2 majority on the five-member commission, aligning it with the party controlling the White House.
The hearing will take place on Capitol Hill and is part of a broader session that also includes the nomination of Jared Isaacman for NASA Administrator. Trusty’s appearance before the Senate Commerce Committee follows months of anticipation since her nomination was announced in January 2025. Given the Republican majority in the Senate, her confirmation is widely expected to proceed smoothly, though the exact timeline for a full Senate vote remains subject to the chamber’s crowded schedule and competing nomination priorities.
Trusty brings a robust background to the table, having served as policy director for the Senate Commerce Committee, where she worked on telecommunications, technology, and innovation issues under Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS). Her career also includes stints as a legislative assistant to Representative Bob Latta (R-OH), roles on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and private-sector experience as a senior consultant at Verizon and a policy representative at Qwest Communications.
The confirmation hearing will likely focus on her views regarding key FCC priorities, such as broadband deployment, spectrum management, and regulatory reforms. With Chairman Carr poised to lead the agency, Trusty’s role could be pivotal in advancing a Republican-led agenda, including potential changes to broadcast ownership rules and policies affecting internet access and free speech. The hearing will be streamed live on the Senate Commerce Committee’s website, offering public insight into the proceedings as Trusty addresses questions from senators. Assuming no significant opposition arises, her confirmation could solidify the FCC’s direction under the new administration in the coming months.
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