OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable John Carney
U.S. House of Representatives
1406 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Coftgressnian Carney:
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 André Carson
U.S. House of Representatives
2453 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Carson:
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 Matt Cartwright
U.S. House of Representatives
1419 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Cartwright:
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 Kathy Castor
U.S. House of Representatives
205 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Castor:
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 Joaquin Castro
U.S. House of Representatives
212 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Castro:
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 Judy Chu
U.S. House of Representatives
2423 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Chu:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable David Cicilline
U.S. House of Representatives
2244 Raybum House OfficeBuilding
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Cicilline:
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 Katherine M. Clark
U.S. House of Representatives
1721 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Clark:
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
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Yvette D. Clarke
U.S. House of Representatives
2351 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Clarke:
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 Cohen
U.S. House of Representatives
2404 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Cohen:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Gerald E. Connolly
U.S. House of Representatives
2238 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Connolly:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable John Conyers
U.S. House of Representatives
2426 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Conyers:
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 Cooper
U.S. House of Representatives
1536 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Cooper:
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 Costa
U.S. House of Representatives
1314 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Costa:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Joe Courtney
U.S. House of Representatives
2348 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Courtney:
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 Crowley
U.S. House of Representatives
1436 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Crowley:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Henry Cuellar
U.S. House of Representatives
2209 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Cuellar:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS CoMMissioN
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Elijah E. Cummings
U.S. House of Representatives
2230 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Cummings:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Danny K. Davis
U.S. House of Representatives
2159 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Davis:
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 Susan A. Davis
U.S. House of Representatives
1214 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Davis:
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 fluily 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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASH INGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Peter A. DeFazio
U.S. House of Representatives
2134 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman DeFazio:
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
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Diana DeGette
U.S. House of Representatives
2368 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman DeGette:
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 Delaney
U.S. House of Representatives
1632 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Delaney:
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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Suzan DelBene
U.S. House of Representatives
318 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman DelBene:
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
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Mark DeSaulnier
U.S. House of Representatives
327 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman DeSaulnier:
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
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Ted Deutch
U.S. House of Representatives
2447 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Deutch:
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 Debbie Dingell
U.S. House of Representatives
116 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Dingell:
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 requiremqnts 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.
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASHINGTON
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Lloyd Doggett
U.S. House of Representatives
2307 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Doggett:
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
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Mike Doyle
U.S. House of Representatives
239 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Doyle:
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. +urther, 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 Tammy Duckworth
U.S. House of Representatives
104 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Duckworth:
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 Donna Edwards
U.S. House of Representatives
2445 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Edwards:
	
/
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
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Keith Ellison
U.S. House of Representatives
2263 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Ellison:
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 Eliot L. Engel
U.S. House of Representatives
2462 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Engel:
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 Anna G. Eshoo
U.S. House of Representatives
241 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Eshoo:
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 Elizabeth Esty
U.S. House of Representatives
405 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Esty:
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 Sam Fan
U.S. House of Representatives
1126 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Fan:
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 cunent 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 Chainnan 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 Chaka Fattah
U.S. House of Representatives
2301 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Fattah:
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 Frankel
U.S. House of Representatives
1037 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Frankel:
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 Marcia L. Fudge
U.S. House of Representatives
2344 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Fudge:
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 Garamendi
U.S. House of Representatives
2438 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Garamendi:
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 Grayson
U.S. House of Representatives
303 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Grayson:
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 Al Green
U.S. House of Representatives
2347 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Green:
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 Gene Green
U.S. House of Representatives
2470 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Green:
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 procçing, and I respect your suggestion.
Since becoming Chairman of the Commission, I hay cused 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 Januar8, 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
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Raül M. Grijalva
U.S. House of Representatives
1511 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Grijalva:
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 Luis V. Gutiérrez
U.S. House of Representatives
2408 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Gutiérrez:
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
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable Janice Hahn
U.S. House of Representatives
404 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Hahn:
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 Alcee L. Hastings
U.S. House of Representatives
2353 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Hastings:
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 Denny Heck
U.S. House of Representatives
425 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Heck:
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 Brian Higgins
U.S. House of Representatives
2459 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Higgins:
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 Himes
U.S. House of Representatives
1227 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Himes:
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 Ruben Hinojosa
U.S. House of Representatives
2262 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Hinojosa:
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 Michael M. Honda
U.S. House of Representatives
1713 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Honda:
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 David Scott
U.S. House of Representatives
225 Cannon House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Scott:
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 Kurt Schrader
U.S. House of Representatives
2431 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Schrader:
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 Adam B. Scuff
U.S. House of Representatives
2411 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Schiff:
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 Jan Schakowsky
U.S. House of Representatives
2367 Raybum House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Schakowsky:
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
4fMISS
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
WASH JNGTON
OFFICE OF
THE CHAIRMAN
March 10, 2016
The Honorable John Sarbanes
U.S. House of Representatives
2444 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Sarbanes:
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 Linda T. Sanchez
U.S. House of Representatives
2329 Rayburn House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Sanchez:
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 Loretta Sanchez
U.S. House of Representatives
1211 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congresswoman Sanchez:
Thank you for your letter urging the Commission to ensure the full disclosure of sponsors
of political advertisements. Your views are very important, and 11 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 Tim Ryan
U.S. House of Representatives
1421 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
Dear Congressman Ryan:
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 fuiiy 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