Media Contact:
Benjamin Arden, (202) 418-0288
benjamin.arden@fcc.gov
 
For Immediate Release

Carr Applauds Chairman Pai’s Public Service

WASHINGTON, November 30, 2020—FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr released the following statement regarding the announcement that Chairman Ajit Pai intends to leave the FCC on January 20, 2021. 

“I want to congratulate and thank my friend Ajit for his courageous and principled service to the country.  He will leave behind an unparalleled record of accomplishments—one that would not even fit in his over-sized coffee mug.

“Ajit took the helm of the FCC in 2017 at a time when U.S. leadership in 5G was in doubt, and his regulatory reforms enabled the private sector to build new, high-speed Internet connections at an unprecedented pace.  With Internet speeds more than doubling under his leadership, America is now home to the strongest 5G platform in the world.

“Growing up in Parsons, Kansas, Ajit cares deeply about closing the digital divide.  And he spent time in all 50 states during his time at the FCC, working to ensure that his policies delivered results in rural communities across the country.

“Ajit did far more than simply mark time during his run as Chairman.  He took on the tough policy fights and made the right calls for the American people.  He strengthened the country’s national security by protecting our communications networks from bad actors that would do us harm.  And he took critical steps in the days following COVID-19 to ensure that Americans could stay connected during the pandemic—whether for distance learning, working remotely, or telehealth.

“As a former staffer at the agency, Ajit has an immense appreciation for the institution, and as its leader he looked out for every person that worked at the Commission.  He took the time to develop a personal connection with countless people at the agency.  And he started a tradition of recognizing staffers for their career accomplishments during the FCC’s monthly meetings.

“Ajit is one of the most kind and earnest people you could hope to meet.  I have benefited greatly from his friendship and advice over the years.  The American people have benefitted greatly from his leadership, and it has been an honor to serve alongside him.  I want to wish Ajit, Janine, and their wonderful children all the best.”

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Office of Commissioner Brendan Carr: (202) 418-2200
www.fcc.gov/about/leadership/brendan-carr