The Elections and Rural Telecom

Excerpt from Tom Smith's September 29, 2008 Back Page:

"No matter who wins the presidency, they will be relying on advisers who have had a history of working on telecommunications issues. They are likely to be names familiar to the industry. Nevertheless, both candidates are committed to change the FCC – perhaps in ways we cannot even anticipate at this point.

The next president, however, will not be the only change agent in the policymaking process. Although Democrats are expected to retain control of the U.S. Congress next year, there are likely to be many changes in Congress next year. These changes also are likely to have a significant impact on telecommunications policy and fuel a contentious debate about the future of USF – a debate on USF unlike any the rural and independent telecommunications industry has experienced in the past.

Do I have your interest, yet? Stay tuned for Part II"

(The full text of the Back Page can be viewed by clicking here.)