Carr, a vocal critic of big tech, set to reshape the Federal Communications Commission under the incoming Trump administration

President-elect Donald Trump has selected Brendan Carr, a current commissioner on the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), to become its new chairman. The move marks a significant shift in the leadership of the agency, known for regulating airwaves, telephone services, and internet access in the U.S. Carr, a staunch Republican and vocal critic of Big Tech, is expected to push forward with Trump’s agenda to reduce regulation, clamp down on political bias in media, and expand the FCC’s role in overseeing the largest tech companies, including Meta, Apple, and Google.

Carr, 45, who has been a prominent figure in conservative circles, previously contributed a chapter on the FCC in the Project 2025 planning document, advocating for broader regulatory oversight of the tech industry. He has been outspoken about dismantling what he calls the “censorship cartel” and has criticized the tech giants for their influence over public discourse. Carr’s nomination follows Trump’s prior indications that he intends to challenge the influence of major media and tech companies, including calls to strip broadcasters like NBC and CBS of their licenses due to what Trump has described as unfair political coverage.

As Chairman, Carr is poised to significantly alter the FCC’s agenda. His proposed reforms may see the agency take on more regulatory power, especially over the digital landscape, sparking a battle with Silicon Valley. Legal experts suggest that while Carr’s ambitions could push the boundaries of the FCC’s current jurisdiction, such changes would likely require new legislation and cooperation with other government bodies, such as the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Department of Justice, which have taken primary responsibility for regulating tech through antitrust actions and consumer protection enforcement.

Despite facing legal challenges, Carr’s supporters argue that he has the ability to use the FCC’s platform to apply pressure on tech companies, potentially blocking mergers or investigating regulatory failures that could lead to fines or loss of licenses. “Brendan is by far the most talented politician on the commission right now,” said Blair Levin, a former FCC adviser, suggesting that Carr’s political savvy may enable him to navigate the agency’s current limitations.

Carr, who has spent years in telecommunications law, is known for his strong support of high-speed wireless internet expansion and deregulation of net neutrality rules, which have been contentious in recent years. Under his leadership, the FCC is expected to take a more aggressive stance in reining in tech companies and ensuring that media outlets serve the public interest, while fostering economic growth and enhancing national security.

However, Carr’s nomination could face scrutiny from Democrats and advocacy groups, particularly concerning his stance on free speech and media diversity. Critics have raised concerns over his potential to misuse regulatory power for political gain, particularly in his efforts to challenge the dominant influence of major tech firms.

As Carr steps into his new role, the future of the FCC under his leadership promises to be a defining element of Trump’s second term, potentially reshaping the regulatory landscape for telecommunications, media, and tech industries in the U.S.