JEFF MERKLEY 
OREGON 
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The Honorable Loretta Lynch 
Attorney General 
US. Department of Justice 
950 Pennsylvania A venue, NW 
Washington, D.C. 20530 
The Honorable Tom Wheeler 
Chairman-
Federal Communications Commission 
445 12th Street, SW 
Washington, D.C. 20554 
WASHINGTON, DC 20510 
March 3, 2016 
Dear Attorney General Lynch and Chairman Wheeler: 
COMMITIEES: 
APPROPRIATIONS 
BANKING, HOUSING, 
AND URBAN AFFAIRS 
BUDGET 
ENVIRONMENT AND 
PUBLIC WORKS 
I write to request that the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Communications 
Commission (FCC) take a careful look at the proposed acquisitions of Time Warner Cable and 
Bright House Networks by Charter Communications. I am particularly interested in whether this 
consolidation in the industry will negatively impact access to broadband, raise prices, or limit 
innovation. 
The shrinking number of operators could limit access to necessary broadband services. With this 
potential deal, the newly merged company could be incentivized to close off new online video 
competitors, further limiting options for consumers. The company would also enjoy increased 
bargaining power when negotiating video programming fees, which could allow it to underprice 
smaller cable companies and new entrant video services, potentially threatening their ability to 
compete and limiting the delivery of broadband service to rural America. 
The amount of debt that Charter will be undertaking also raises questions about its ability to 
follow through on its commitments to improving its network, particularly in rural areas, which is 
a priority for my state. The DOJ and the FCC should carefully examine whether the financial 
condition of the new company would allow for those investments, and whether its debt levels 
will lead to higher costs for consumers. 
313 HART SENATE OFFICE BUILDING 
WASHINGTON, DC 20510 
(202) 224- 3753 
FAX (202) 228- 3997 
1 
121 S.W . SALMON STREET 
SUITE 1400 
PORTLAND, OR 97204 
(503) 326-3386 
FAx(503) 326-2900 
174
For the United States to remain a leader in innovative technologies and cutting edge ideas, 
broadband access must be competitive, affordable, and accessible to all. I ask that DOJ and the 
FCC thoroughly consider whether a Charter-Time Warner Cable-Bright House Networks deal 
will serve the public interest and leave consumers better off than they are today. 
Sincerely, 
Jia1~JJ:}~ 
United States Senator 
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