US: Hearing to test views of new FCC, FTC nominees

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee is set to question nominees to the Federal Communications Commission and Federal Trade Commission on Wednesday ahead of a vote to confirm their new positions.

Michael O’Rielly was nominated to sit on the FCC alongside fellow nominee Tom Wheeler, who was chosen as head of the communications watchdog. Reports say the Senate will likely vote on both nominees together. Department of Justice official Terrell McSweeny was chosen as a commissioner for the FTC. Reports say it is unclear whether the Senate would vote on McSweeny at the same time as O’Rielly and Wheeler.

Wednesday’s hearing will mark the first public appearance for the nominees to express their views on major issues of antitrust enforcement. O’Rielly will likely face questioning regarding the upcoming FCC spectrum auction, while McSweeny will be questioned on her views of enforcement and online privacy.

Full Content: The Hill

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