FCC Commissioner Takes On 4 Big Tech Companies For ‘Censorship Cartel’
Republican FCC commissioner says the agency should investigate the 'unchecked power' of big tech companies in 'suppressing opposing viewpoints'.
Republican FCC Commissioner Brendan Carr believes that the government should investigate what he believes are big tech companies' concerted efforts to suppress opposing viewpoints, a move that he says is a threat to the First Amendment.
Carr has asked FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel to open an inquiry into four tech companies: Facebook, Google, Twitter and Amazon. Carr believes the hearing should focus on how these companies' control over online speech impacts the First Amendment and competition in the digital marketplace.
What is the 'Censorship Cartel'?
Carr said in a statement that these four companies have “unchecked power over online speech in America.” He also claims that these companies are “censoring conservative viewpoints” and “colluding to suppress dissenting voices.”
To back up his claims, Carr points to several examples such as Facebook and Twitter banning former President Donald Trump from their platforms; Google de-platforming Parler; and Amazon Web Services suspending Gab.
Why is the FCC getting involved?
The FCC traditionally regulates the telecommunications industry, but Carr argues that the agency has a role to play in protecting free speech online. He said that the First Amendment applies to all forms of speech, including online speech, and that the FCC has a responsibility to ensure that the internet remains a free and open platform.
Carr also believes that the big tech companies' control over online speech is harming competition in the digital marketplace. He notes that these companies operate both as platforms and as publishers, and that this gives them an unfair advantage over smaller competitors.
What could happen next?
It is uncertain whether Rosenworcel will open an inquiry into the big tech companies. She has not yet commented on Carr's request. However, if she does open an inquiry, it could lead to significant changes in the way that these companies operate.
