freedom of expression

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Brendan Carr to lead the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Carr, an FCC commissioner since 2017, is a familiar figure within the administration and has aligned his policy views with Trump’s conservative agenda, particularly concerning free speech and deregulation. Often criticising tech giants like Alphabet and Meta, accusing them of stifling conservative voices, he has called for revisiting Section 230, which shields platforms from liability over user content. Carr advocates for changes to ensure anti-discrimination norms apply to tech firms and supports laws similar to those in Texas and Florida, enforcing platforms to accept diverse viewpoints. The US Supreme Court, however, is cautious about potential First Amendment conflicts, preserving platforms’ rights to moderate content.

Carr’s proposals extend to involving tech companies in funding the Universal Service Fund, which supports communication infrastructure, arguing their financial involvement is justified. Historically, tech firms have resisted this initiative, citing their substantial investments in infrastructure. Additionally, Carr opposes net neutrality, viewing it as restrictive to innovation. His experience includes contributing to repealing net neutrality under previous FCC Chairman Ajit Pai, with Carr arguing that alleged negative impacts, such as increased costs, did not materialise.

Removing Chinese telecom tech from US networks on national security grounds is also part of Carr’s agenda, seeking additional funding to replace it due to security concerns. He also labels TikTok a national threat, though Trump has softened his stance.

One of Carr’s crucial policy stances is to improve rural internet access through technologies like Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellites, considering them cost-effective solutions. His agenda pushes for a deregulatory approach, reducing local government and regulatory barriers in telecom infrastructure to encourage growth and innovation.

Carr’s tenure is anticipated to bolster free speech and minimise regulation, aligning with Trump’s advocacy. However, his policies will likely stir debate, especially around balancing constitutional rights and industry demands. This approach suggests a potentially transformative phase for the FCC, marked by contentious discussions over free speech, regulation, and innovation under Trump’s forthcoming presidency.