Supporters rally to defense of 'Obama phone' program

Republicans have targeted a federal phone subsidy, widely referred to as the "Obama phone" program, as a prime example of wasteful government spending. But supporters of the Federal Communications Commission’s Lifeline program are coming to its defense, arguing that it is crucial for ensuring that needy people are able to communicate with their loved-ones and call for help in an emergency.

"Allow me to set the record straight," said FCC Commissioner Mignon Clyburn. "Without this program, 15 million low-income families would literally be choosing between feeding their children or going without a dial tone that potentially could save their lives and put them on a better economic path." Consumer advocacy groups Public Knowledge, Free Press, the Center for Media Justice and the Utility Reform Network issued statements praising Commissioner Clyburn for her full-throated defense of the subsidy.