Morning Wire $42 Billion Spent & No Internet Yet | Saturday Extra
Nov 2, 2024
An investigation into the Biden administration's $42 billion broadband initiative reveals shocking delays and mismanagement. FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr discusses the ongoing struggle to connect rural Americans to reliable high-speed internet. The challenges facing underserved communities are brought to light, particularly in Pennsylvania, raising serious concerns about accountability. Additionally, the criticism surrounding funding decisions for Starlink adds to the complexities of improving rural internet access.
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Broadband Initiative Delays
- The Biden-Harris administration's $42 billion broadband initiative has failed to connect any rural Americans to high-speed internet after 1,000 days.
- The administration claims no projects will start until next year at the earliest, and most not until 2026.
Reasons for Broadband Delays
- The broadband plan's delays are due to the administration adding a progressive wish list of policies unrelated to internet connectivity.
- These include DEI requirements, a climate change agenda, price controls, and favoring government-run networks.
Dysfunction in Broadband Program
- Reports from insiders reveal dysfunction, finger-pointing, and a blame game within the broadband program.
- State officials report receiving conflicting, changing, or no advice, highlighting the program's mismanagement.