Free Press has taken to the pages of the inside-the-Beltway Washington press to describe its ideal candidate for the next opening at the FCC’s top spot in the form of publishing a help wanted ad. And the organization is encouraging its members to contact president-elect Obama.
Here’s the ad: “HELP WANTED * Chairman, Federal Communications Commission.* The American people seek a new leader at the Federal Communications Commission to take media and technology policy into the 21st century. * This job requires a strong commitment to protecting the open internet, ensuring fast and affordable internet access for all Americans, and diversifying media ownership. * Applicant must be willing to hold long and unruly public hearings and enjoy arcane telecom banter. * Public interest background strongly preferred. Industry lobbyists need not apply.”
Free Press is using a poll conducted among its supporters in order to present a candidate wish list to Obama.
RBR/TVBR observation: NCTA may have its druthers for a candidate but regardless who wins the chair, cable constituents will likely be shooting champagne corks from the rooftops just to celebrate the exit of Kevin Martin. As for broadcasters, we suspect that Free Press has a much greater chance of being thrilled with the next FCC chair than does the NAB.
