What to do with the C-band airwaves?

Sen John Kennedy (R-LA) is angling to hold more Federal Communications Commission hearings soon in his appropriations subcommittee overseeing the commission, still focused on how FCC Chairman Ajit Pai will structure a planned auction of 5G-friendly airwaves in the C-band. “Let me speak bluntly, we’re watching the FCC like a hawk,” said Sen Kennedy. “And once we finish impeachment, I’m probably going to hold more [appropriations] hearings to talk about the different options and alternatives that the FCC is considering on the type of public auction it’s going to hold.” Sen Kennedy said he hasn’t decided whether to invite Chairman Pai or simply agency staff but wants more “substantive” discussion and is “interested in hearing a lot more on how the FCC is planning on allocating or attempting to allocate the money.” Legislative negotiation is revving up among Chairman Kennedy and Senate Commerce leaders, which could dictate where auction proceeds go