Yesterday, Tom Wheeler resigned as Chairman of the FCC, effective January 20, 2017. Two of his staunchest critics, Republican Commissioners Ajit Pai and Michael O’Rielly, praised their outgoing boss in no uncertain terms.
In separate and succinct one paragraph statements, they mentioned frequent disagreements over policy, procedure and substantive issues. But each, in their own way, showered him with unqualified adulation. Pai likened Wheeler to his favorite team, the Ohio State Buckeyes, for his tenacity. O’Rielly enjoyed talking with Wheeler about his family.
We are surprised, given these glowing endorsements, that neither lauded Wheeler for the panache of his neckties or the color of his socks.
While there is still only speculation about Wheeler’s successor, one thing is sure. The FCC under Trump will be a far different place.
