Senate Confirms FCC Chairman Martin for Another Term

The Senate voted late last night to confirm Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin J. Martin for another five-year term at the agency.

Martin, a Republican, joined the commission in July 2001 and became chairman in March 2005, after Michael K. Powell resigned as chairman and left the FCC.

The Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee unanimously approved Martin’s nomination in September.

The FCC, which regulates the telecommunications industry, is expected to address a number of contentious issues under Martin’s leadership, including new media ownership rules and a potential overhaul of the fund that subsidizes rural telephone service.

The five-member commission currently has three Republicans and two Democrats.

Who needs Congress when we have the FCC!