Ted Cruz accelerates FCC appointment process before Senate power shift
Senator Ted Cruz is moving to expand the Republican majority on the Federal Communications Commission ahead of the January 2027 transfer of power.
Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz has scheduled a nomination hearing for FCC candidate Danielle Thumann Severs for November 10. The move aims to secure a full Senate vote on her confirmation before Democrats assume control of the chamber in January 2027.
Confirming Thumann Severs would establish a 3-1 Republican majority within the commission. This margin could shift further to a 3-0 advantage by the end of 2027, as Democrat Commissioner Anna Gomez faces the end of her term and requires renomination to continue serving.
This push represents a strategic effort to cement regulatory influence during the final weeks of the committee's current leadership. The outcome depends on whether the nomination can successfully navigate a full floor vote in the remaining months of the congressional session.