Federal Communications Commission; independent agency regulating interstate communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable
Background
The Federal Communications Commission is an independent U.S. government agency established by the Communications Act of 1934, responsible for regulating interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire, satellite, and cable. The FCC issues broadcast licenses, enforces regulations on content and ownership, and adjudicates complaints about broadcasters. Its five commissioners are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate, with no more than three from the same political party. Under Chair Brendan Carr beginning in January 2025, the FCC became a focus of controversy over its use of regulatory authority to pressure media companies whose content the Trump administration viewed as unfavorable.