Comcast allegedly trying to block CenturyLink from entering its territory

CenturyLink has accused Comcast of trying to prevent competition in cities and towns by making it difficult for the company to obtain reasonable franchise agreements from local authorities.

CenturyLink made the claim in a filing that asks the Federal Communications Commission to block Comcast’s proposed acquisition of Time Warner Cable or impose conditions that prevent Comcast from using its market power to harm competitors. Comcast has a different view on the matter, saying that CenturyLink shouldn’t be able to enter Comcast cities unless CenturyLink promises to build out its network to all residents. Without such conditions, poor people might not be offered service, Comcast argues.