Statement by Federal Communications Commission Chairman William Kennard.
Re: Response to Michael Powell's statement regarding politicization of the FCC.
Date: April 18, 2000.
Source: Federal Communications Commission.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 18, 2000
NEWS MEDIA CONTACT:
Joy Howell 202-418-0505
Linda Paris 202-418-7121

Statement of FCC Chairman William E. Kennard
Regarding FCC Lifeline Announcement

I have been very pleased to have the support of Commissioner Powell and all of my colleagues at the Commission when it comes to examining ways of increasing telephone access among Native Americans.

While our existing Lifeline policies are working to increase telephone access, the fact is that many poor people are unaware that relief is even available to them. So I am very excited to have President Clinton's endorsement of the Commission's policies and proposals in this area. What better way to raise awareness than to have the President talk about the Lifeline program in a tribal area where the problem is most acute?

I am also gratified by the bipartisan support we have received from members of Congress.

The success of this program has nothing to do with politics. It has everything to do with connecting poor people to the phone network and to our society.

As all of my statements have made clear, and as the President himself said in his remarks and his official releases, the proposal to increase telephone access comes from the FCC. President Clinton endorsed the proposal as part of his official duties as President. He is not running for office, and these were not campaign appearances.

I look forward to working with all of my colleagues and with public officials of every political stripe and at every level, from the President of the United States to President Begaye of the Navajo Nation, who recognize the need for action. By working together, we can leave a legacy of which we can all be proud.