End of FCC Term 'Likely' in Sight, O'Rielly Tells House Communications

FCC Commissioner Mike O’Rielly acknowledged in written testimony submitted Wednesday before a planned Thursday House Communications Subcommittee hearing that the panel is “likely the last time I will testify before Congress as a sitting member of the Commission.” The White House announced Tuesday that President Donald Trump intends to nominate NTIA Senior Adviser Nathan Simington in O’Rielly’s place.

O’Rielly’s office didn’t comment on whether his statement represents a concession that he no longer has a chance of being renominated to the FCC. O’Rielly earlier tweeted, “­­I extend my sincere congrats to Mr. Simington for selection to join” the FCC “and offer best wishes for a smooth confirmation process and successful term at the Commission.”

“It has been a tremendous honor to hold this position, and I have approached the role as though you were in my seat, guided by fidelity to the law and the will of lawmakers; respect for the millions of Americans you represent here in Washington; regard for those appearing before the Commission and the arguments they raise; and a determination never to take a single day, meeting, site visit, or conversation for granted,” O’Rielly told House Communications. Its hearing is for FCC oversight.