Jessica Rosenworcel Leaves FCC And What’s Next For U.S. Telecom Rules

glass and metal doorways with the words Federal Communications Commission

Jessica Rosenworcel’s departure as FCC Chairwoman marks the end of an era and signals a significant shift in telecommunications regulation under the incoming Trump administration.

At a Glance

FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to step down on January 20, 2025
Trump selects Brendan Carr as new FCC chairman
Rosenworcel’s departure allows for 3-2 Republican majority at FCC
Significant achievements include broadband expansion and Space Bureau launch
Net neutrality rules face uncertain future under new leadership

End of an Era at the FCC

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has announced her plan to depart the agency on January 20, 2025, coinciding with President-elect Donald Trump’s assumption of office. Rosenworcel, who made history as the first woman confirmed to lead the FCC, was appointed by President Biden in 2021 after initially being nominated as a commissioner by President Obama in 2012.

During her tenure, Rosenworcel oversaw significant advancements in telecommunications policy and infrastructure. Her leadership saw the connection of over 23 million households to broadband and provided 17 million students with access to WiFi hotspots. Additionally, the FCC, under her guidance, launched the first-ever Space Bureau, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to regulatory challenges in the rapidly evolving telecommunications landscape.

Shift in Political Balance

Rosenworcel’s departure paves the way for President-elect Trump to reshape the FCC’s leadership and policy direction. Trump has selected Brendan Carr, a senior Republican commissioner at the FCC, as the new chairman. This appointment, coupled with the opportunity to name a new commissioner, will create a 3-2 Republican majority within the agency.

Rosenworcel’s statement, released Wednesday, said: “Serving at the Federal Communications Commission has been the honor of a lifetime, especially my tenure as Chair and as the first woman in history to be confirmed to lead this agency. I want to thank President Biden for entrusting me with the responsibility to guide the FCC during a time when communications technology is a part of every aspect of civic and commercial life. Taking the oath of office on the street outside of the agency during the height of the pandemic, when so much of our day-to-day moved online, made clear how important the work of the FCC is and how essential it is for us to build a digital future that works for everyone.”

Implications for Telecommunications Policy

The change in leadership at the FCC raises questions about the future of key telecommunications policies. Of particular concern is the fate of net neutrality rules, which Rosenworcel and the agency’s two Democrats voted to reinstate earlier this year. These rules are currently stayed by an appellate court due to legal challenges from industry groups, and their future remains uncertain under the new Republican-led commission.

Trump has praised incoming chairman Brendan Carr as a “warrior for Free Speech” and expressed expectations that he will challenge media and tech companies alleged to be silencing conservative views. This stance suggests a potential shift in the FCC’s approach to content regulation and platform accountability.

It's the honor of my lifetime to lead the @FCC and serve as the first permanent female Chair. Thank you to the President and Senate for entrusting me with this responsibility. There's work to do to make sure modern communications reach everyone, everywhere. Now let's get to it.

— Jessica Rosenworcel (@JRosenworcelFCC) December 7, 2021

Rosenworcel’s Legacy and Future Plans

As Rosenworcel prepares to leave the FCC, she reflects on her time with gratitude and pride. A graduate of Wesleyan University and New York University School of Law, Rosenworcel brought a wealth of experience to her role at the FCC. Her tenure was marked by a commitment to expanding digital access and navigating the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements.

Looking ahead, Rosenworcel has expressed a desire to spend more time with her family. She thanked her husband, daughter, and son for their support throughout her time at the FCC, acknowledging the sacrifices that come with public service. As she steps down, Rosenworcel leaves behind a legacy of expanded digital access and innovative regulatory approaches in an era of unprecedented technological change.