Senate Reconfirms Pai to FCC

The Senate confirmed FCC Chairman Ajit Pai for another term Monday, as expected. Pai's new term lasts until June 30, 2021. Votes were continuing at our deadline, but late Monday afternoon he reached the threshold needed.

The confirmation followed a long-expected floor debate. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and other Democrats criticized the chairman for FCC-proposed rescission of 2015 net neutrality rules, Sinclair's proposed buy of Tribune and other controversial policy matters.

Senate Republicans and many communications sector groups strongly backed Pai's reconfirmation.