FOR RELEASE: January 26, 2026

Contact: Richard T. Kaplar
The Media Institute
703-506-8030

Vienna, Va., Jan. 26, 2026 – A paper released by The Media Institute’s initiative “The Madison Project: Free Speech and Press in American Democracy” examines the FCC’s current and future role in American communications from the perspective of FCC Commissioner Olivia Trusty.

“Free Speech, Public Service, and Innovation: The FCC’s Role in America’s Communications Future” notes the Federal Communications Commission’s commitment to protecting the First Amendment while recognizing the need to encourage innovation to strengthen free speech.

“At the FCC, our regulatory and oversight responsibilities span the media and communications sectors, which means that protecting the First Amendment is paramount to our policy work,” Comm. Trusty says. But she notes broadcasters have been subject to fewer First Amendment protections than other forms of media, dating back to the Supreme Court’s Red Lion decision in 1969.

In terms of serving the public interest, Comm. Trusty favors a marketplace approach: “When the marketplace, through the choices of individual licensees, advances the public interest, that is the best outcome – for the First Amendment, the Communications Act, and our constitutional republic,” she says.

The FCC can further that approach by encouraging a climate of innovation. Comm. Trusty outlines four concrete ways the FCC can reach that goal:

  • Maintain a regulatory climate that encourages innovation by streamlining outdated rules.
  • Use federal resources wisely, putting spectrum to its highest and best use.
  • Lead on the international stage by working with the State Department and NTIA.
  • Spotlight and celebrate innovation wherever it occurs.

One fact remains clear, Comm. Trusty concludes: “Innovation will continue to shape the future of communications and expression in America.”

“Free Speech, Public Service, and Innovation” is the latest paper in The Madison Project series titled “Conversations of Note.” It is available online at https://www.mediainstitute.org/the-madison-project/.

The Madison Project is underwritten by foundations, corporations, and others with an interest in media and communications, the First Amendment, and the preservation of American democracy. Initial support has been provided by Verizon, LG Electronics, and Wiley Rein LLP. For more information about underwriting opportunities, contact Richard T. Kaplar at kaplar@mediainstitute.org.

The Media Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization specializing in communications policy and the First Amendment. Visit the Institute at www.mediainstitute.org.

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