It turns out that both of the departing FCC officials – Julius Genachowski and Robert McDowell – are being institutionalized. Genachowski is headed for the Aspen Institute, and McDowell will be joining the Hudson Institute.
Think tanks are not the only option for departing government officials, but they frequently provide a buffer between public service and re-entry into the private business world.
McDowell stated, “I am pleased to announce that, after departing the Commission on May 17th, I will join the Hudson Institute’s Center for Economics of the Internet as a visiting fellow. As its mission statement articulates, the Hudson Institute is a nonpartisan policy organization dedicated to innovative research and analysis that promotes global security, prosperity, and freedom. Ensuring that the Internet marketplace remains free from unnecessary government and multilateral intervention will help achieve those noble goals. I have long admired the work of the Hudson Institute, especially its focus on how international trade can help spread liberty and improve the human condition. I look forward to joining such a distinguished group of scholars.”
