WASHINGTON, DC - Energy and Commerce Committee Republican Leader Greg Walden (R-OR) issued the following statement after President Donald Trump and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Ajit Pai announced their strategy to strengthen America’s position in the race to 5G, support the next generation of wireless connectivity, and connect rural communities to digital opportunity.
“We’re not Venezuela. We do not need a big government role over the networks; we need massive private investment working with the federal government to win the race to 5G. I applaud President Trump and Chairman Pai’s commitment to this approach. 5G is the future and America must lead. Likewise, to truly win this race, all Americans must be included. The $20.4 billion over 10 years to rural broadband - titled the ‘Rural Digital Opportunity Fund’ - is an unprecedented assurance to every community that you will be part of this next wave of wireless connectivity."
