In this edition of “What’s Ahead,” we delve into the latest developments surrounding President Biden’s push for greater regulation of the American economy. The administration has recently filled key government agencies with modern socialists who believe that they can control the economy through extensive regulations rather than overt takeovers.
These individuals are now setting their sights on the internet, which they view as the ultimate prize. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has recently classified internet providers as common carriers, allowing them to be regulated similarly to old telephone companies. This gives the FCC the power to control prices, investment decisions, and labor policies within the industry.
While this regulation, known as net neutrality, was briefly enforced during the Obama administration with negative consequences, it was ultimately repealed by the Trump administration in favor of increased investment, lower wireless prices, and improved access to high-speed internet. However, President Biden’s administration is now looking to reintroduce these regulations, hindering progress in a time of rapid technological advancement.
This move is being welcomed by countries like Beijing and Moscow who see it as an opportunity to exert more control over the global internet landscape. It remains to be seen how this will play out in practice, but one thing is clear: Americans deserve access to fast and affordable internet without government interference or censorship.