Olivia Trusty’s nomination to the Federal Communications Commission advanced in the Senate Commerce Committee on Wednesday, bringing FCC Chairman Brendan Carr closer to securing a Republican majority. Trusty, a former senior advisor to Senator Roger Wicker, was nominated by President Donald Trump in January to fill the GOP’s third seat on the Commission.
Her nomination was approved in a 21-7 en bloc vote, covering both the remainder of a term ending June 30 and a full five-year term beginning July 1. Committee Chair Ted Cruz praised Trusty’s experience and emphasized her potential role in expanding the commercial use of spectrum. He noted her strong background in telecommunications policy and said she would be a valuable partner in restoring the FCC’s commercial auction authority.
While members of both parties acknowledged Trusty’s qualifications, Democratic senators raised alarms over the political implications of her confirmation. In particular, they pointed to the need for maintaining bipartisan representation on independent agencies like the FCC. Trusty assured the committee during prior hearings that she would remain objective, adhere strictly to statutory responsibilities, and avoid politicizing the agency.
Still, Democrats conditioned their support. Senator Maria Cantwell voted to advance the nomination but warned that continued support hinged on the administration maintaining partisan balance. She stated that bipartisan cooperation was essential for confirming nominees from both parties.
Senator Jacky Rosen also supported moving the nomination out of committee but held back from committing to a full Senate vote. She expressed concern over the administration’s treatment of Democratic nominees on other commissions and said she could not support Trusty on the floor without assurance that the White House would preserve the FCC’s independence.
Senator Amy Klobuchar took a similar stance, voicing support for advancing the nomination but signaling opposition at the floor vote stage if no Democratic nominee is presented alongside Trusty.
The matter is further complicated by the upcoming departure of Democratic Commissioner Geoffrey Starks, who announced plans to resign before summer. Although his term officially ends in 2027, he notified the administration of his early exit in March. His vacancy increases the pressure to nominate a Democratic replacement to preserve political balance.
Trusty’s confirmation now heads to the full Senate for debate and a vote, where Democratic resistance may affect the final outcome unless bipartisan concerns are addressed.