-Donald Trump chose Brendan Carr as the new leader of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the group that oversees things like TV, radio, and internet rules. On the same day he was picked, Carr shared his big plans, saying he wants to fight what he calls “censorship” and protect free speech for regular people.
Elon Musk, the owner of Twitter (now called X) and a supporter of Carr, responded to his post with the word “Based,” showing he agrees with Carr’s goals.
What Carr Wants to Change
In the past, FCC leaders focused on things like making the internet faster and expanding wireless services. Carr has different plans. Instead of focusing on those things, he wants to:
- Hold tech companies responsible for limiting what people can say online.
- Punish TV and radio stations if they don’t follow certain rules.
- Stop programs that promote fairness and diversity.
These ideas match what Trump talked about during his campaign, where he often said that social media companies were unfair to conservative opinions.
Carr’s Connections to Elon Musk
Carr and Musk are close allies. Musk has been critical of rules he thinks harm free speech, especially for his satellite internet service, Starlink. Some people think Carr might help Starlink by giving it more government funding, even though Carr insists he will be fair.
Carr and Musk both agree that tech platforms like Facebook and Google limit free speech. Carr even wrote to their CEOs, warning that Trump’s administration might take action to review their activities.
Carr’s Plans for Big Tech
Carr has written about what he thinks the FCC should do during Trump’s presidency. His main goals include:
- Limiting the power of big tech companies.
- Blocking TikTok, a popular app from China, because he believes it’s a security risk.
- Changing laws to make tech companies responsible for censoring speech.
However, the FCC doesn’t currently have the power to control companies like Google or TikTok. Congress would have to pass new laws to give the FCC more authority.
TV, Radio, and Free Speech
The FCC manages licenses for TV and radio stations, which allow them to use public airwaves. Trump has said some networks should lose their licenses because of things they’ve said about him. Carr has hinted that he might take these complaints seriously.
For decades, the FCC hasn’t denied license renewals, but Carr suggested he might change that if stations don’t meet their responsibilities to serve the public.
Mixed Reactions
Some people think Carr’s appointment is great, while others worry he will just follow Trump’s and Musk’s personal agendas. Critics believe Carr doesn’t care about the public’s interest, but supporters say he’s qualified for the job.
In the past, FCC leaders have focused on bridging the digital divide—helping people get internet access—and supporting new technology like 5G. Carr’s priorities are very different and reflect Trump’s focus on fighting censorship and reshaping media and technology rules.