Clinton extends Ness’ FCC term

With Congress in adjournment, President Bill Clinton reappointed Democrat Susan Ness to the FCC on Dec. 18. Clinton had renominated Ness to the Senate Commerce Committee 18 months before, but the panel, chaired by Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), took no action. This would have left the FCC with four members—two Democrats and two Republicans—when Congress reconvened. A recess appointment does not need congressional approval.

Ness was sworn in as FCC commissioner in 1994 and is the most senior of five commissioners. The majority created by her appointment is expected to shift after President-elect George W. Bush is inaugurated. The appointment will also allow her to vote on the AOL-Time Warner merger, which is expected to be approved. Special conditions may be attached to the approval, however, and those will be voted on by the commission.

"I am honored that President Clinton has appointed me to serve a recess term at the Federal Communications Commission. I welcome the opportunity to continue to work with my colleagues and our exceptionally able and dedicated staff to promote economic growth, competition, innovation and benefits for American consumers," Ness said.

The action means Ness can remain on the commission until Congress confirms a replacement by Bush or until the end of the first session of the next Congress, which at the end of 2001.