FCC Comissioner Geoffrey Starks to resign

Leaves the agency with just one Democrat

Democrat FCC commissioner Geoffrey Starks announced Tuesday morning his intention to resign from the agency later this spring, creating a vacancy President Trump needs to fill. 

In a statement, Starks said the following: 

“Today I sent a letter to the President and Leader Schumer indicating that I intend to resign my seat as a Commissioner this spring. Serving the American people as a Commissioner on the Federal Communications Commission has been the honor of my life. With my extraordinary fellow Commissioners and the incredible career staff at the agency, we have worked hard to connect all Americans, promote innovation, protect consumers, and ensure national security. I have learned so much from my time in this position, particularly when I have heard directly from Americans on the issues that matter to them. I have been inspired by the passion, engagement and commitment I have seen from colleagues, advocates, and industry. Over the next few weeks, I look forward to working with the Chairman and my fellow Commissioners, and all FCC staff, to further the mission of the agency.”

Starks did not say why he decided to step down or did not give a specific date. There was speculation he would depart after Trump was reelected to a second, non-consecutive term. Starks was appointed by Trump to the FCC in January 2019. 

The departure leaves the agency with two Republicans and one Democrat (Anna Gomez), as Trump announced the appointment of Republican Olivia Trusty to the commission after the departure of FCC Chairman Jessica Rosenwarcel. Trusty’s appointment is expected to sail through the Senate

Trump will now appoint a new commissioner to Starks’ vacant position. He can appoint an independent or a third-party person to the commission, but by law, he cannot appoint another Republican to the position. Trump wants greater oversight over federal agencies such as the FCC, and would likely select a commissioner – perhaps a libertarian – to mirror his views on media, which aren’t exactly positive as he’s often railed against journalists and media companies such as NBCUniversal as they own MSNBC. 

Another option is Trump could take his time in announcing a replacement, leaving the position vacant with a 3-1 Republican Majority. 

Either way, the GOP will have control of the agency and will likely push through a deregulation agenda benefiting media conglomerates – with conditions, of course regarding liberal bias in media and DEI initiatives, which FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has made clear he wants to do away with.