445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20554
Fax-On-Demand 202 / 418-2830
Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
TTY: 202/418-2555
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action. Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action. See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).
| For Immediate Release January 31, 2001 |
Press Contact: Bryan Tramont 202-418-2000 |
COMMISSIONER FURCHTGOTT-ROTH DECLINES TO SEEK REAPPOINTMENT; WILL SERVE UNTIL DATE MUTUALLY AGREED TO WITH ADMINISTRATION
"It has been a great honor to serve for more than three years on the Federal Communications Commission, more than half a year beyond the expiration of my term. However, there comes a time when every free market advocate in government must fulfill his dream by returning to the private sector. For me, that time has arrived. Therefore I have decided not to seek reappointment. Nonetheless, in order to facilitate a smooth transition, I will continue to serve until a mutually agreeable departure date is worked out with the Administration.
"I will leave with many friends at the Commission. I have been fortunate enough to serve with a talented and thoughtful group of fellow Commissioners. I look forward to our continued friendship in the years to come. In this regard, Chairman Powell will be a great Chairman; I will do all I can to assist him in guiding the agency towards a more faithful interpretation of the law.
"My personal staff has been both gifted and dedicated. They have been responsible for many of the achievements of my office. Paul Misener, Kevin Martin, Helgi Walker, Rebecca Beynon, Bryan Tramont and my other legal advisors have served with distinction. The separate statements and dissents they helped craft have disciplined the agency and brought it closer to the Communications Act. Dolly Johnson and Ginger Clark kept me on time and on task for three years -- no small accomplishment.
"The Commission's professional staff is both knowledgeable and deeply committed to serving the public. As I have often said, the American taxpayer is our ultimate employer. We should be judged by our service to them. The FCC staff -- from the Bureau Chiefs to the Engineers, from the Mailroom to the Security Team, from the lawyers to the economists -- has consistently impressed me with its friendliness to the public and willingness to help. We are lucky to have them.
"Finally, I am also grateful to those outside the Commission that have been so instrumental to my service here. I particularly note my deepest gratitude for the support of Tom Bliley, the former chairman of the House Committee on Commerce, and Majority Leader Trent Lott of the United States Senate. Their commitment to public service has been an inspiration. So many others also have been supportive; I hope to be able to thank each individually in the months ahead."