Republican Commissioner pick Meredith Attwell Baker was officially sworn into office Friday afternoon by new chair Julius Genachowski, and the newest Democrat, Mignon Clyburn, will follow suit this morning.
Clyburn will be sworn in by Senior Judge Matthew J. Perry, Jr. at the Matthew J. Perry, Jr. Courthouse in Columbia SC at 11AM. She is said to be the both the first Black woman and the first native of South Carolina to serve as a commissioner.
Commenting on Baker’s swearing in, Genachowski said, “I am delighted to welcome Meredith Attwell Baker to the Federal Communications Commission. Meredith’s broad and deep experience will be a tremendous benefit to the FCC and it’s an honor to serve with such an extraordinarily talented colleague. At this critical moment in history, I look forward to collaborating with my fellow Commissioners on ways that the agency can improve the lives of all Americans through communications.”
Baker was not at a loss for words, either, stating, “I am pleased to today have been sworn in and to assume the office of Commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission. I am grateful to President Barack Obama for nominating me, and the United States Senate for confirming me, to this important position and I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and working on policies and programs that will help build a 21st Century communications infrastructure than can provide sustained economic growth, opportunity and prosperity for the nation, and for all telecommunications users. The FCC staff is well known for their expertise, professionalism and dedication, and I look forward to working together on these important issues. Finally, I am excited to be joining Chairman Julius Genachowski, and Commissioners Michael Copps, Robert McDowell, and Mignon Clyburn to ensure that our communications networks and technologies serve the nation’s needs and improve the lives of all Americans.”
RBR/TVBR observation: The new commissioners will have the better part of a month to get acclimated before their first Open Meeting 8/28/09. They should get more exposure on Capitol Hill as well, where the Energy and Commerce Committee is looking to reschedule an FCC oversight hearing.
