Dec 7, 2021 - Technology

Senate confirms first female chair of FCC

Jessica Rosenworcel as she testifies at a House hearing in 2019

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel. Photo: Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call.

The Senate on Tuesday voted 68-31 to confirm Jessica Rosenworcel to lead the Federal Communications Commission.

Why it matters: Rosenworcel, who has led the agency on an interim basis since January, is the first permanent female chair.

What they're saying: "It's the honor of my lifetime to lead the FCC and serve as the first permanent female Chair," Rosenworcel said in a tweet.

  • "There's work to do to make sure modern communications reach everyone, everywhere. Now let's get to it."

Between the lines: Rosenworcel's confirmation leaves the 5-member agency deadlocked with two Democrats and two Republicans.

  • President Biden's nominee to fill the third Democratic seat, Gigi Sohn, faces opposition from some Republicans and conservative media outlets, though she has notably garnered support from Newsmax and One America News Network.
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