February 2019

So Much for 'Senator Pai'

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai, who has long attracted rumors about a potential run for political office, shot down speculation that he would seek the seat in his home state of Kansas that Sen. Pat Roberts (R-KS) will vacate with his upcoming retirement. Asked about his interest at a press conference following the FCC’s February meeting, Chairman Pai said, “I’ve said repeatedly that I’m going to be the FCC chairman for the next two years, and I have no plans to do anything else during that time.”

Don't Hold Your Breath on Privacy

Senate Commerce Committee leaders signaled they do not expect to unveil a draft privacy bill along with the committee’s hearing on Feb. 27. “There won’t be any unveiling,” said Committee Chairman Roger Wicker (R-MS). “But I know a lot of people are working hard on various approaches.” Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS) echoed the remarks. “I don’t think it’s that close,” he said of the prospects of a draft bill unveiling at the hearing. Still, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) said the panel’s working group has made “steady progress.”