Comcast CEO Looks Forward to Fresh Start With New FCC Chair

Comcast Chief Executive Brian Roberts said he looks forward to a "clean slate" under new leadership at the Federal Communications Commission. Roberts said he expects that incoming FCC chair Julius Genachowski, will push for more access and adoption of high-speed Internet service. He said Comcast is planning to spend an additional $300 million to $400 million from its coffers this year to upgrade its networks to all-digital and introduce its fastest Internet speeds. Roberts pointed to strong ties the company has with leadership in the Obama administration, including Commerce Secretary Gary Locke and acting FCC Chairman Michael Copps. "They know we are at the cusp of change with broadband and they want to get it right," he said. But when asked about new rules or stronger enforcement of the FCC principles on how carriers can manage content and applications on their networks, Roberts warned such action could hurt the industry. "Any uncertainty through new laws slows down innovation," Roberts said.