At the Technology Policy Institute’s Aspen Forum, FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez delivered a pointed critique of increasing political pressure from the Trump Administration, signaling her readiness to resist if targeted for removal.
In a fireside chat, Gomez addressed proposals to place the FCC under executive branch control, such as within the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. She argued that Congress intentionally designed the FCC as an independent agency to avoid partisan dominance, stating, “Congress rejected having the FCC be part of the executive branch because it thought it was too important… We’ve seen what happens when the FCC acts at the behest of this administration. What you lose is too critical.”
Radio Ink reports her remarks follow speculation that former President Donald Trump, if re-elected, might attempt to restructure the FCC, similar to his recent dismissal of two Democratic commissioners at the Federal Trade Commission.
In an interview with Law360 at the forum, Gomez asserted that any attempt to remove her would be “illegal and against the will of Congress.” She added, “If I was fired, I would join other commissioners who have litigated and appealed their firings.”
Regarding the two vacant FCC seats, previously held by Democrat Geoffrey Starks and Republican Nathan Simington, Gomez said she has no insight into the White House’s plans or potential nominees.