Ajit Pai appointed FCC chairman

Ajit Pai, one of the US Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) commissioners, has been elevated to the post of chairman.

Pai has served with the FCC since being confirmed unanimously by the US Senate on 7 May 2012.

“I am deeply grateful to the President of the United States for designating me the 34th Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission,” Pai said.

“I look forward to working with the new administration, my colleagues at the commission, members of Congress, and the American public to bring the benefits of the digital age to all Americans.”

According to Pai’s official FCC biography, he sees public safety as being a top priority. The biography states that he “took action to ensure that consumers can reach emergency services whenever they dial 911. He has also called on the FCC to help law enforcement combat the rising threat posed by contraband cellphones in our jails and prisons. And he’s pushed for the advancement of Next Generation 911, an Internet-based system which will help keep Americans safe.”

Pai’s appointment drew praise from FCC colleagues and industry members.

“I congratulate Commissioner Ajit Pai on being named chairman of the Federal Communications Commission,” said FCC commissioner Mignon Clyburn.

“Ajit is bright, driven and committed to bringing connectivity to all Americans. I am hopeful that we can come together to serve the public interest by supporting competition, public safety and consumer protection.”

“This is another strong selection by the new president in the technology and transportation arena,” said ITS America President and CEO Regina Hopper.

“Chairman Pai is extraordinarily well respected in the innovation community,” she added. “He is well versed in the intricacies of US communications, internet and spectrum policies. And, he will set a strong pace at the FCC’s helm for policymaking that advances American innovation and technology leadership.”

Image courtesy FCC

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