Copps Named Acting FCC Chairman
By Staff TVNEWSDAY, Jan 22 2009, 4:43 PM ET
President Obama today designated Democratic FCC Commissioner Michael Copps as acting chairman, replacing Republican Chairman Kevin Martin who resigned earlier this week.
As acting chairman, Copps will run the agency until the permanent chairman is appointed by the president.
Most believe that appointment will be longtime Obama friend and former FCC General Counsel Julius Genachowski. However, the White House has yet to announced its intention.
"I thank President Obama for his confidence in me and for this opportunity to serve," Copps said in a statement.
"I know that I have a truly gifted and terrific team to work with. I pledge every effort I am capable of to help steer the commission through its current transition to new leadership."
NAB President David K. Rehr said in a statement: "NAB salutes Michael Copps for being selected acting chairman of the FCC. We respect Chairman Copps for his tenacious commitment to the public interest, and we look forward to working with him and the other commissioners."
Fellow Commissioner Jonathan Adelstein offered his support to his colleague: "I am thrilled to congratulate my good friend and trusted colleague, Michael Copps, on his designation as acting chairman... .The FCC will benefit from his leadership, experience, and abiding commitment to the public interest. He understands that public service is a sacred trust with the American people, and he has repeatedly demonstrated his sterling character, willingness to build consensus, and deep commitment to serve all Americans. With the transition to digital television almost upon us, he will provide urgently needed guidance to put us back on track."
Josh Silver, executive director of Free Press, issued the following statement: "Michael Copps is a longtime champion and tireless advocate of the public interest, and we congratulate him on his new position. His experience and leadership are exactly what the commission needs at this crucial moment. The FCC is in good hands."
