FCC chief Brendan Carr prioritizes dominating the space economy

In South Dakota, Brendan Carr, who took on the role as chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under President Trump, delivered his inaugural major speech. He outlined six priorities that would guide the agency's agenda moving forward, prominently featuring an initiative to elevate the United States' position within the growing "space economy." This initiative is premised on supporting domestic companies to lead in orbital capabilities, as the FCC seeks to streamline processes that previously allowed satellite launches to lag behind innovation efforts by private entities. Moving from traditional ground-based communications to technologies that utilize airwaves and now space represents an ambitious shift in focus and strategy for the FCC. Carr emphasized that speed and efficiency would be central to this new approach, addressing historical bureaucratic delays that can impede technological progress, as was the case where it took longer for agencies to approve satellite launches than for innovators to create and deploy these technologies. In his speech, he indicated that the FCC would eliminate outdated regulations, including those concerning telegraphs and old broadcast technologies, to facilitate a more modern regulatory environment conducive to technological advancement. Carr reaffirmed a commitment to modernizing the FCC's operations and aligning them with the needs of businesses developing cutting-edge technologies for the future. The speech also highlighted the importance of maintaining U.S. leadership in critical technology areas such as 5G, 6G, and artificial intelligence, amid increasing competition from countries like China. Carr stated his intention to ensure that U.S. firms set the global standard in these sectors, indicating that the FCC plays a vital role in this endeavor through its policy-making and regulatory functions. He pointed out the establishment of a National Security council within the FCC as a response to growing concerns around cybersecurity and technology threats posed by foreign entities, especially from China. Carr's remarks framed this agenda as necessary not just for economic prowess but also for national security, aiming to secure American interests in key technological domains. As the U.S. races to maintain its technological edge over adversaries, Carr's leadership embodies a cautious yet aggressive strategy aimed at reshaping the regulatory landscape to foster innovation and protect national interests. The FCC's actions under Carr are positioned to accelerate the growth of the space economy and broader technological landscape while navigating the complexities of geopolitics inherent in technological leadership and competition.