### Jessica Rosenworcel Resigns as FCC Chair: Reflecting on Her Legacy and Future Challenges
Chairwoman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Jessica Rosenworcel has declared her resignation from the agency, effective January 20, 2025, which aligns with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. Rosenworcel’s time as the first woman officially appointed to lead the FCC has been defined by major accomplishments, political hurdles, and a commitment to fostering a more inclusive digital environment.
#### A Groundbreaking Tenure Amid Significant Obstacles
Rosenworcel, a Democrat, has been an FCC commissioner since 2012 and was elevated to chair by President Joe Biden in 2021. Her leadership coincided with a swiftly evolving technological landscape and a global health crisis that highlighted the essential nature of broadband access. In her farewell message, Rosenworcel reflected positively on her experience at the FCC, deeming it “the honor of a lifetime” and stressing the agency’s mission to craft a digital future accessible to everyone.
One of her major achievements was leading the establishment of the largest broadband affordability initiative in U.S. history. This program enabled over 23 million households to gain access to high-speed internet and supplied more than 17 million students with devices during the pandemic, tackling the “homework gap” that left numerous children without the means to participate in online education. However, this program experienced a major setback when Congress permitted its funding to expire, despite Rosenworcel’s continuous support for its continuation.
#### Operating in a Politically Split FCC
Rosenworcel’s time in office was characterized by a lengthy 2-2 stalemate at the FCC, which hindered the agency’s progress on vital initiatives. This deadlock commenced in December 2020 when the Republican-led Senate confirmed Trump’s nominee Nathan Simington, resulting in an equal divide between Democrats and Republicans at the beginning of Biden’s presidency.
Even with a Democratic majority in the Senate, President Biden postponed nominating a third Democrat to the FCC until October 2021, ultimately selecting Gigi Sohn. Sohn’s nomination faced fierce resistance and was formally withdrawn in 2023. It wasn’t until September 2023 that Biden’s second nominee, Anna Gomez, received confirmation, giving Democrats a 3-2 edge. This situation provided Rosenworcel with just over a year to lead the agency with a Democratic advantage.
#### Major Policy Efforts and Hurdles
During her limited time with a Democratic majority, Rosenworcel advocated for the reinstatement of net neutrality rules, which had been revoked during the Trump era. In October 2023, the FCC voted 3-2 along party lines to reintroduce these regulations, classifying broadband as a Title II service under the Communications Act. However, these rules encountered immediate legal challenges and were later blocked by an appeals court in 2024, with judges indicating that broadband providers were likely to succeed in court.
Rosenworcel also launched investigations into consumer protection matters, including the regulation of data caps set by internet service providers. These initiatives aimed to confront practices that many consumers consider restrictive and expensive. Nevertheless, with a Republican majority looming at the FCC, these efforts may soon be undone.
#### The Path Forward: A New Chapter Under Brendan Carr
Following Rosenworcel’s departure, the FCC will revert to a 2-2 deadlock until President-elect Trump appoints a fifth commissioner. Trump has hinted at plans to elevate Republican Commissioner Brendan Carr to the chairmanship. Carr, a strong proponent of deregulation, is anticipated to reverse many of Rosenworcel’s consumer protection initiatives and cease efforts to establish net neutrality.
Under Carr’s leadership, the agency’s direction will likely align with the GOP’s wider agenda, which emphasizes diminishing regulatory scrutiny of broadband providers and opposing government involvement in the telecommunications sector. His appointment is poised to solidify a 3-2 Republican majority early in Trump’s administration, considering the GOP’s 53-47 control in the Senate.
#### Rosenworcel’s Impact and Closing Thoughts
Despite the trials she confronted, Rosenworcel’s legacy is one of championing digital equality and broadband accessibility. Her endeavors to bridge the digital divide and connect underrepresented communities have left a significant mark, even as some of her efforts stand at risk of being undermined.
In her farewell remarks, Rosenworcel extended her congratulations to Carr and expressed trust in the FCC’s committed team. “From his time here, I am confident that Commissioner Carr is familiar with the staff, the responsibilities of this new role, and the importance of continued U.S. leadership in communications,” she stated.
As the FCC transitions to new governance, the agency’s direction is expected to change markedly, reflecting the priorities of the incoming administration. Nonetheless, Rosenworcel’s time in office serves as a testament to the vital role the FCC plays in shaping the digital landscape of the nation and ensuring that technological progress serves all Americans.
