Former Clinton-era FCC chair Reed Hundt and former G.H.W. Bush and G.W. Bush communications policy official Janice Obuchowski have joined forces to have the FCC grant their company–Frontline Wireless–a significant swath of spectrum. They have submitted a proposal to the FCC which urges a “market-based approach” for the development of a broadband public safety network. Without commenting on its merits, it will be important to place a spotlight on the lobbying done involving these two well-connected former officials.
We have long been concerned about the revolving door between the FCC and the media/telecom industry. With high-ranking Democratic and Republican former officials helping push this proposal, it is likely to receive some form of preferential treatment. Precisely because a former FCC commissioner is involved, Frontline’s proposal deserves closer scrutiny.
