Tom Wheeler: The open internet's unlikely defender

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Tom Wheeler wasn't expected to be a hero of the open internet. But that's how the outgoing Federal Communications Commission Chairman will be remembered when he leaves his office in January.

In 2015, Chairman Wheeler, a telecom-lobbyist-turned-regulator, pushed through a set of sweeping network neutrality rules that reclassified internet service providers as public utilities. He's also protected consumer privacy by championing stringent regulations, enhanced affordable broadband for low-income families and advocated for competition. "Rather than be the lapdog of industry some feared (or hoped for), Tom Wheeler proved himself to be the most ferocious watchdog for consumers and competition in nearly two decades," said Harold Feld, senior vice president for Public Knowledge. Last week, Chairman Wheeler, 70, gave notice that he will step down on January 20, when President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Fellow Democratic Commissioner Jessica Rosenworcel, who wasn't reconfirmed, will leave when her term ends on December 31. When the dust settles, the agency will have a 2-1 Republican majority, putting Chairman Wheeler's legacy in jeopardy.


Tom Wheeler: The open internet's unlikely defender