OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Steny H. Hoyer
U.S. House of Representatives
1705 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Hoyer:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Jared Huffman
U.S. House of Representatives
1630 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Huffman:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Steve Israel
U.S. House of Representatives
2457 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Israel:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Sheila Jackson Lee
U.S. House of Representatives
2252 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Jackson Lee:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Hakeem Jeffries
U.S. House of Representatives
1607 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Jeffries:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Hank Johnson
U.S. House of Representatives
2240 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Johnson:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Marcy Kaptur
U.S. House of Representatives
2186 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Kaptur:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable William Keating
U.S. House of Representatives
315 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Keating:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Robin Kelly
U.S. House of Representatives
1239 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Kelly:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Joseph P. Kennedy
U.S. House of Representatives
306 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Kennedy:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Dan Kildee
U.S. House of Representatives
227 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Kildee:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Derek Kilmer
U.S. House of Representatives
1520 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Kilmer:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Ron Kind
U.S. House of Representatives
1502 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Kind:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Ann Kirkpatrick
U.S. House of Representatives
201 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Kirkpatrick:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Ann McLane Kuster
U.S. House of Representatives
137 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Kuster:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Jim Langevin
U.S. House of Representatives
109 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Langevin:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Rick Larsen
U.S. House of Representatives
2113 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Larsen:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable John B. Larson
U.S. House of Representatives
1501 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Larson:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
/
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Brenda Lawrence
U.S. House of Representatives
1237 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Lawrence:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Barbara Lee
U.S. House of Representatives
2267 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Lee:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIHMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Sander M. Levin
U.S. House of Representatives
1236 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Levin:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable John Lewis
U.S. House of Representatives
343 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Lewis:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Ted Lieu
U.S. House of Representatives
415 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Lieu:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Daniel Lipinski
U.S. House of Representatives
2346 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Lipinski:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Dave Loebsack
U.S. House of Representatives
1527 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Loebsack:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Zoe Lofgren
U.S. House of Representatives
1401 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Lofgren:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Alan Lowenthal
U.S. House of Representatives
108 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Lowenthal:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Nita M. Lowey
U.S. House of Representatives
2365 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Lowey:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Ben Ray Luján
U.S. House of Representatives
2446 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Luján:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
' w
fMISS'
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Michelle Lujan Grisham
U.S. House of Representatives
214 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Lujan Grisham:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the/
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 20i'6, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include/cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio 1icenses.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMTSSJON
WASH INGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Stephen F. Lynch
U.S. House of Representatives
2369 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Lynch:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Carolyn B. Maloney
U.S. House of Representatives
2308 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Maloney:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Sean Patrick Maloney
U.S. House of Representatives
1529 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Maloney:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Doris Matsui
U.S. House of Representatives
2311 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Matsui:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS CoMMissioN
WASH INGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Betty McCollum
U.S. House of Representatives
2256 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman McCollum:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
/
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Jim McDermott
U.S. House of Representatives
1035 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman McDermott:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Jim McGovern
U.S. House of Representatives
438 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman McGovern:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Jerry McNemey
U.S. House of Representatives
2265 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman McNerney:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASH INGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Gregory W. Meeks
U.S. House of Representatives
2234 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Meeks:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Grace Meng
U.S. House of Representatives
1317 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Meng:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
'
Is
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Gwen Moore
U.S. House of Representatives
2245 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Moore:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Seth W. Moulton
U.S. House of Representatives
1408 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Moulton:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFJCE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Pete Aguilar
U.S. House of Representatives
1223 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Aguilar:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Sincerely,
Tom Wheeler
/
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Brad Ashford
U.S. House of Representatives
107 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Ashford:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Karen Bass
U.S. House of Representatives
408 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Bass:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Joyce Beatty
U.S. House of Representatives
133 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Beatty:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Xavier Becerra
U.S. House of Representatives
1226 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Becerra:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Ami Bera
U.S. House of Representatives
1535 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Bera:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Don Beyer
U.S. House of Representatives
431 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Beyer:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Sanford D. Bishop
U.S. House of Representatives
2407 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Bishop:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Earl Blumenauer
U.S. House of Representatives
1111 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Blumenauer:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Suzanne Bonamici
U.S. House of Representatives
439 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Bonamici:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Brendan F. Boyle
U.S. House of Representatives
118 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Boyle:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Robert A. Brady
U.S. House of Representatives
102 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Brady:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example,by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of politial advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Julia Brownley
U.S. House of Representatives
1019 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Brownley:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
AfMIs5\9
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Cheri Bustos
U.S. House of Representatives
1009 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Bustos:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable G.K. Butterfield
U.S. House of Representatives
2305 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Butterfield:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Lois Capps
U.S. House of Representatives
2231 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Capps:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Sincerely,
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Michael E. Capuano
U.S. House of Representatives
1414 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Capuano:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Tony Cárdenas
U.S. House of Representatives
1510 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Cárdenas:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and I appreciate your sharing them
with me.
As your letter indicates, the current definition of "editorial control" is the sponsoring
organization. The Commission has yet to conduct a proceeding to review the definition. I
understand you believe we should conduct such a proceeding, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I have focused on expanding the public's
access to information about political advertising. For example, by broadening the universe of
entities required to disclose the sponsoring organization of political advertising in the
Commission's online public inspection file database. As of July 2014, television broadcasters
are required to identify an advertisement's sponsor. Further, on January 28, 2016, the
Commission adopted rules to expand the online file requirements to include cable operators,
satellite TV providers, broadcast radio licensees, and satellite radio licensees.
These new rules expand the reporting under the current "editorial control" definition and
will shine more sunlight on political and issue advertising. I appreciate fully that you believe the
Commission should go farther.
Thank you for sharing your views with us. The fact that 170 members of congress is a
significant statement, the significance of which is not lost.
Tom Wheeler