FCC chief on network neutrality: ‘The big dogs are going to sue, regardless’

Right now, followers of the network neutrality debate really want to know two things. First, when will the Federal Communications Commission unveil its new rules? And second, how aggressive will they be? FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler is refusing to be tied down on either count. But on Nov 21, Chairman Wheeler hinted that he knows the stakes.

"Look, the big dogs are going to sue, regardless of what comes out," he told reporters, referring to the large Internet service providers who have threatened to challenge any strong rules by the agency in court. "We need to make sure that we have sustainable rules." He added, "I want to move forward on open Internet rules with dispatch. I also want to have open Internet rules that are sustained. And that's the process we're going through."

He evidently believes there will be no compromising with the broadband providers, and nothing the FCC does will prevent a legal challenge. Does this mean Chairman Wheeler is growing less convinced of his middle-ground strategy?