Bush to Renominate Adelstein to FCC

Federal Communications Commissioner Jonathan S. Adelstein, who clashed with some of his fellow commissioners over such issues as expanding telephone competition and loosening media ownership rules, is being renominated by President Bush.

The Democrat, whose appointment was disclosed on the White House website this week, had been written off until recently by FCC watchers as a lame duck.

Republican election victories, combined with the defeat of his mentor and former boss, Senate Minority Leader Tom Daschle (D-S.D.), prompted speculation that Adelstein would be replaced with a Democrat more in line with conservative interests.

Bush had to fill the slot with a Democrat because FCC rules require that no more than three commissioners come from one party.

Analysts said Adelstein’s revival stemmed from efforts by the White House and Senate Democrats to resurrect discussions to package Adelstein along with some White House judicial appointments. A number of rural telephone carriers also lobbied hard for the native South Dakotan, pointing to his strong support of expanding communications services in rural communities.

Along with fellow Democrat Michael J. Copps, Adelstein battled a bid by FCC Chairman Michael K. Powell to allow broadcasters to acquire more local television stations and newspapers.

He also opposed efforts to free SBC Communications Inc. and other regional Bell phone companies from FCC rules that required the Baby Bells to share parts of their phone networks with rivals.

Adelstein was picked by Bush in February 2002 to complete the term of Commissioner Gloria Tristani. Adelstein’s term was to have ended upon the adjournment of Congress this year. His new term lasts until June 30, 2008.