Trump nominates agency lawyer to serve on Federal Communications Commission

The FCC currently has two Republicans and one Democrat, Commissioner Anna Gomez. Trump fired two Democrats on the Federal Trade Commission and dismissed numerous other Democrats.

The FCC historically is divided 3-2 with the party in control of the White House holding a majority. The law requires three members for a quorum, so if Thumann is confirmed it could allow Trump to fire Gomez.

Carr in April ordered an unusual, early review of broadcast licenses held by Disney's eight company-owned ABC television stations, even though the stations' license renewals were not scheduled to be considered until October 2028. The day before Carr ordered the early review, Trump urged ABC to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.

Broadcast stations need FCC licenses to use public airwaves. While license revocations are exceptionally rare, critics say the prospect of losing a license can pressure broadcasters and raise concerns about government interference in editorial and programming decisions.