Media Contact: 
Neil Grace, (202) 418-0506
neil.grace@fcc.gov
For Immediate Release
CHAIRMAN WHEELER ANNOUNCES HIS PLANS TO STEP DOWN
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WASHINGTON, December 15, 2016 – Today, Chairman Tom Wheeler, after more than three 
years at the helm of the agency, announced he intends to leave the Federal Communications 
Commission on January 20, 2017. Chairman Wheeler issued the following statement:
“Serving as F.C.C. Chairman during this period of historic technological change has been the 
greatest honor of my professional life. I am deeply grateful to the President for giving me this 
opportunity. I am especially thankful to the talented Commission staff for their service and 
sacrifice during my tenure. Their achievements have contributed to a thriving communications 
sector, where robust investment and world-leading innovation continue to drive our economy and 
meaningful improvements in the lives of the American people. It has been a privilege to work 
with my fellow Commissioners to help protect consumers, strengthen public safety and 
cybersecurity, and ensure fast, fair and open networks for all Americans.”
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Office of Media Relations: (202) 418-0500
TTY: (888) 835-5322
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www.fcc.gov/office-media-relations
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order 
constitutes official action.  See MCI v. FCC, 515 F.2d 385 (D.C. Cir. 1974).