Joe Biden’s nominee to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), Gigi Sohn, has withdrawn her nomination after a tumultuous confirmation process and opposition from key members of Congress. The decision came after Sen. Joe Manchin announced that he would not vote for Sohn, citing her history of partisan activism, inflammatory statements online, and work with far-left groups.
Manchin emphasized the importance of maintaining the FCC’s independence and nonpartisanship in regulating all forms of communication in American life. He stated that Sohn had shown that she was not the right person for the job, and urged the Biden administration to nominate someone who could bring the country together rather than drive it apart.
Sen. Ted Cruz, the Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce Committee, led the Republican opposition during Sohn’s confirmation hearings, raising concerns about her advocacy for censorship of conservatives, hostility towards right-wing media, conflicts of interest, lack of candor with the committee, and controversial political donations.
Cruz called the withdrawal of Sohn’s nomination a significant victory and a strong bipartisan agreement that the FCC needs a fair and impartial candidate who can receive the necessary support for confirmation. He stressed the importance of free speech and noted that the FCC is not a place for partisan activists.
The FCC plays a crucial role in regulating and overseeing communication in the United States. It is responsible for enforcing laws and regulations related to broadcasting, cable, satellite, and other forms of communication. The commission is composed of five members, who are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. The FCC is an independent agency that is not subject to direct control by the President or Congress.
The FCC has recently faced increased politicization, with Democrats pushing for their own agendas. Many have called for the commission to remain independent and nonpartisan, and to focus on promoting competition, innovation, and consumer protection.
The withdrawal of Sohn’s nomination has highlighted the challenges of finding a suitable candidate who can win the support of both parties and maintain the FCC’s independence. The Biden administration will now have to nominate someone who can navigate the complex political landscape and win over skeptical senators.
