Establishment of the National Security Council by the FCC
On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) announced the formation of a new entity known as the Council for National Security. While specific functions of this council remain largely unelaborated, its overarching mission is to enhance U.S. competitiveness against China, particularly in cutting-edge technology arenas like artificial intelligence and telecommunications.
Goals of the Council for National Security
The FCC has outlined a tripartite agenda for this initiative that emphasizes crucial national challenges:
- “Diminish dependency on foreign adversaries within American technology and telecommunications supply chains.”
- “Reduce vulnerabilities related to cyber threats, espionage, and surveillance from hostile nations.”
- “Position the United States as a leader in strategic technological competitions with China concerning pivotal innovations like 5G/6G networks, artificial intelligence, satellite technologies, quantum computing, robotics and autonomous systems, as well as Internet of Things applications.”
While references to “foreign adversaries” are prevalent throughout their announcement, it is significant that only China is explicitly identified.
Council Composition and Leadership
Director Adam Chan (America in the World Consortium)
The Council will comprise representatives from eight distinct Bureaus and Offices within the FCC. This structure aims to enhance inter-agency cooperation and information dissemination. Adam Chan has been appointed as Director of this council while also acting as security counsel for the agency.
The Growing Threat Landscape
“Our nation currently confronts enduring threats posed by foreign adversaries—most notably from China’s Communist Party,” remarked FCC Chairman Carr in an official release about this initiative. He continued by stating that “malevolent actors consistently seek opportunities to compromise our digital infrastructures.” He emphasized that safeguarding Americans—and American enterprises—from such risks necessitates heightened vigilance at all levels within FCC-regulated sectors.
A Contextual Backdrop: The Current Regulatory Climate
Chairman Carr’s short time leading commission efforts aligns closely with President Donald Trump’s policy objectives—a connection underscored by Carr’s contributions to Project 2025 regarding communication regulations. His early tenure has seen proactive inquiries into media practices among various outlets alongside investigating Comcast’s diversity initiatives while calling publicly for input on which existing regulations should be revised or eliminated altogether.
