Free Press Congratulates Mignon Clyburn on Becoming the First Woman to Lead the FCC

WASHINGTON -- On Monday, Federal Communications Commissioner Mignon Clyburn takes over as acting chairwoman of the agency. She's the first woman to lead the FCC, and she will remain chairwoman until the Senate confirms her successor. President Obama has nominated Tom Wheeler, a former industry lobbyist and a major donor to the Obama campaign, for the position.

Free Press President and CEO Craig Aaron made the following statement:

“We congratulate Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn on her new position. To be the first woman in history to lead the FCC — after becoming the first African-American woman to serve as a commissioner — is an important milestone, and we wish her continued success as she begins her term.

“Chairwoman Clyburn’s appointment is a reminder that there are still many barriers to overcome at the FCC. We look forward to the day when ‘acting’ does not precede the title of the next FCC chairwoman.

“During her tenure, Clyburn has an opportunity to begin restoring the FCC’s credibility as an agency that truly cares about the public interest and the communication needs of everyday people.”