Martin Named To Head FCC

Washington — Kevin Martin was named Federal Communications Commission (FCC) chairman by President George W. Bush last week, replacing outgoing chairman Michael Powell, who announced his resignation in January.

Martin, 38, has been an FCC commissioner since 2001 and since he is simply being promoted to chairman, he does not have to undergo Senate confirmation procedures.

“I am deeply honored to have been designated as the next chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, and I thank President Bush for this distinct privilege,” Martin said in a written statement.

Consumer Electronics Association's president/CEO Gary Shapiro applauded the Martin's appointment, calling the decision wise and positive.

“During his tenure at the Commission,” Shapiro said, “Kevin has consistently supported competition, deregulation and the advancement of new technologies. This philosophy makes him well suited to lead the Commission as it continues to address the regulatory issues of the digital age.”

Prior to this appointment, Martin was special assistant to the President for Economic Policy; a staffer at the National Economic Council, U.S. representative to the G-8 Digital Opportunity Task Force; and principal adviser on technology and telecommunications issues for the Bush-Cheney transition team in 2000-2001.