WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) issued the following statement today on the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Ajit Pai as a Commissioner to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC):

“Congratulations to fellow Kansan Ajit Pai on his confirmation today to be a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Commissioner. Ajit is a public servant with the highest level of integrity and character and only the second Kansan ever to serve on the FCC, and the first since Bob Wells served on the Commission from 1969 to 1971.

“A native of Parsons, Kansas, Ajit brings a unique understanding of the challenges facing rural America at a time when many important decisions about the future of telecommunications are being discussed at the Commission. From how we manage and promote more efficient use of our spectrum resources, to crafting policies that will expand broadband access to more Americans and connect more schools, libraries and hospitals, the FCC’s decisions will help define how we encourage competition, promote innovation, create jobs and drive our economy into the future.

“In order to succeed, the Commission requires smart, talented policy leaders – leaders who respect free markets and understand that regulations should be balanced with pro-growth economic principles. Ajit Pai is one of those leaders. I congratulate him on his confirmation and look forward to working with him in his new role."

Mr. Pai is currently a partner at Jenner & Block law firm, and previously worked in the Office of the General Counsel of the FCC, where he served as Deputy General Counsel, Associate General Counsel, and Special Advisor to the General Counsel.

Prior to joining the FCC, Mr. Pai served as Chief Counsel to the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Constitution, Civil Rights and Property Rights, when then-Sen. Sam Brownback (R-Kan.) served as Chairman. Mr. Pai also served as Senior Counsel in the Office of Legal Policy at the U.S. Department of Justice and began his public sector career with the Telecommunications Task Force of the United States Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division. In addition, Mr. Pai has served as Associate General Counsel at Verizon. He holds a B.A. from Harvard University and a J.D. from the University of Chicago.

The FCC is directed by five Commissioners, which are appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate for 5-year terms.

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