STATEMENT OF COMMISSIONER MIGNON L. CLYBURN Re: Revitalization of the AM Radio Service, MB Docket No. 13-249 Earlier this month I released a statement reaffirming my belief in the power, role and economic potential of the AM radio market. That is why I circulated the proposal to open an AM only window for FM translators during my tenure as interim Chair. As I noted in my earlier statement, we have seen positive benefits from the actions we took at that time, including the significant growth in the availability of FM translators. Despite that progress, many in the AM industry, particularly small Class C and D station owners, find themselves challenged in successfully finding and affording a translator. That’s why I am proud to lend my vote to support an Order that acknowledges the realities of the upcoming incentive auction and the need for immediate relief for AM stations. This Order will allow the smallest AM stations that face the largest challenges to be the first in line for relief, both for the modification application window that will take place early next year, and for the auction window that will happen in 2017. It also provides for outreach and assistance to those that are most resource-challenged. Giving preference to these Class C and D stations will revitalize AM radio, our broadcast service with the highest percentage of ownership diversity. Though much of the back-and-forth on the best way to provide this relief played out in the press, instead of within the walls of the Commission, I am nevertheless pleased that we have achieved what I believe is an outstanding result. Today’s order reflects the type of compromise that is necessary to achieve results in our democratic process.