As we still await the approval of Olivia Trusty to fill the seat that was vacated with the shift of Chairwoman Rosenworcel stepping down and Commissioner Carr entering the role of Chairman, there is a new development as of today with Commissioner Starks making a statement that he plans to resign his seat in the spring. While there is not an exact timeline, Starks did mention fulfilling his duties over the “next few weeks”.

Starks said of his time at the FCC “Serving the American people as a Commissioner on the Federal Communications Commission has been the honor of my life. With my extraordinary fellow Commissioners and the incredible career staff at the agency, we have worked hard to connect all Americans, promote innovation, protect consumers, and ensure national security. I have learned so much from my time in this position, particularly when I have heard directly from Americans on the issues that matter to them. I have been inspired by the passion, engagement and commitment I have seen from colleagues, advocates, and industry.”

Chairman Carr followed up with his own notice and shared the following in response to Starks’ resignation: “Commissioner Starks led many of the FCC’s national security initiatives, and I welcomed the chance to work closely with him on important matters, including promoting new innovations, protecting consumers, and bringing families across the digital divide. Commissioner Starks put in the work and leaves an impressive legacy of accomplishments in public service. I always learned a lot from him and benefited from the many events we held together.”

Does this now leave the FCC with only one Democrat? We will soon find out but since the role is appointed by the President, I have a feeling it will be heavily weighted with Republicans.