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| For the Record: Dave to D.C. on Possible Deal |
| Sunday, 01 August 2010 19:07 |
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The $2M silver tongues have been meeting with the top of the FCC for weeks to reach a compromise among themselves, with public interest types screaming about deals being done in the dark. Dave Kaut reported on Friday special weekend meetings at the FC, , I confirmed and then sent this note to many concerned and reporters who cover D.C.Later Friday night someone I trust told me things were still open. Writing Sunday night I have no word on what went down, but as a tech reporter in New York I wouldn't expect to know if they decided to keep it quiet while they defuse opposition.
I want to repeat that it's only opinion that the proposed compromise is mostly a fig leaf. The rumored details include loopholes broad enough to ram through 350 channels, but that is not confirmed.
Folks
Word from D.C. getting around fast A major meeting of all the lobbyists is happening over the weekend with the FCC to cut a final deal on Net Neutrality. (97% sure Stifel prime source) Insiders say that there's at least a 50% chance a deal will be reached, because most of the power players are ready to deal. (informed opinion) The "compromise" will contain details that make the result purely symbolic and essentially a fig leaf. (opinion, I think well informed). Rahm Emanuel, pushed by Seidenberg, has put serious pressure on. The bells have already got what they really want and then some, I believe, so unless they are unusually pigheaded they will cut the deal. (possible, but they are smart and want to get it done.) Action item: The only thing likely to stop a deal is if Julius is afraid all the progressives will stand together and object vociferously. That could alienate the democratic base. something he might not right before the election.
-------- Implication, unproven but likely: If you don't want a compromise that makes the bells happy, those in favor of net neutrality need to immediately unify and get their message to Genachowski. Whether jumping in is worth it or not I leave up to you. Personally, I was hoping things would stay quiet for a while. |