Olivia Trustee tells Senate she will expand broadband access, tackle robocalls and seek spectrum coordination if confirmed to FCC

Olivia Trustee, nominated to be a commissioner of the Federal Communications Commission, told the Senate Commerce Committee she would work with Congress and federal agencies to expand high‑speed Internet access, protect consumers from illegal robocalls and strengthen security for the nation’s telecommunications infrastructure.

In her opening remarks, Trustee said she would "work with Congress and the Administration to expand access to high speed Internet services for all Americans, protect consumers from illegal robocalls, strengthen the security of the nation's telecommunications networks, and restore America's leadership in next generation communications technologies." (Quote from Olivia Trustee.)

Why it matters: The FCC regulates communications infrastructure and policy that affect broadband deployment, wireless spectrum, media ownership and consumer protection. The committee’s questioning focused on the future of the Universal Service Fund, the accuracy of broadband maps, restoration of auction authority, spectrum sharing and the commission’s independence.

Key exchanges

- Universal Service Fund and broadband mapping: Senators Amy Klobuchar and Joni Ernst asked Trustee how to modernize and sustain Universal Service Fund (USF) support and how to ensure accurate broadband maps under the Broadband Data Act. Trustee said the FCC should work with Congress on a predictable, sufficient funding source for universal service and use challenge processes and private‑sector data to improve maps.

- Spectrum and interagency coordination: Multiple senators pressed Trustee about spectrum policy and how the FCC should coordinate with the Department of Defense, NTIA and other agencies. Trustee said her experience on both the Commerce and Armed Services Committees gives her insight into the need for "everybody in the same room" to hear the same information and forge common ground on spectrum use, including support for inventories and dynamic spectrum sharing where feasible.

- Auction authority and mid‑band spectrum: Several senators, including Senator Jerry Moran and Senator Markey, urged restoring the FCC’s general auction authority and establishing a pipeline of mid‑band spectrum for commercial use. Trustee said she would recommend that Congress restore auction authority "as quickly as possible," citing economic and innovation benefits.

- Robocalls and AI: Senators pressed Trustee on using advanced technology to stop scams and robocalls that target seniors. Trustee said she would prioritize stronger enforcement, cross‑jurisdictional cooperation with state attorneys general and use of artificial intelligence to provide proactive call‑blocking measures.

- Media ownership and First Amendment concerns: Senators including Jon Markey and Luján raised concerns about statements by the FCC chair and whether the agency could be used to punish editorial decisions. Trustee said she would be guided by the statute and the record, and said she would not use the FCC to "weaponize" the agency against media organizations.

- Undersea cables and security: Trustee said the FCC should promote transparency in foreign ownership of submarine cables, encourage U.S.‑led cable projects and improve disaster recovery and emergency response plans for undersea infrastructure.

Endorsements and background: Senator Roger Wicker introduced Trustee and gave a strong endorsement, describing her as highly qualified with cross‑committee experience on spectrum and national‑security issues.

Procedural notes: Trustee agreed to the committee’s schedule for questions for the record. The transcript shows the hearing will be followed by written questions and deadlines; no committee confirmation vote is recorded in the provided excerpt.

Ending: Trustee emphasized bipartisan cooperation and legal fidelity: "My first obligation is to follow the law," she told the committee when asked about potential pressures on independent agency independence.