Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel has announced her intention to step down from her role on January 20, 2025, coinciding with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump.
Rosenworcel, who has served on the FCC since 2012 and became its first permanent female chair, has been instrumental in expanding the agency’s focus on space policy, including the establishment of a dedicated Space Bureau. She has also championed initiatives to enhance internet access for students and households, overseeing programs that have benefited approximately 23 million households.
Rosenworcel’s decision to step down aligns with longstanding commission precedent, wherein the chairperson resigns upon the inauguration of a new president. Her departure marks the end of a significant chapter in the FCC’s history, characterized by a focus on expanding digital access and addressing emerging challenges in the telecommunications landscape.