Trump to nominate new top telecom policy adviser

The White House announced Tuesday that President Trump will nominate David Redl to be the next administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration.

The NTIA, an agency within the Department of Commerce, serves as the White House’s primary source of advice on telecom policy in areas like broadband access and spectrum.

Redl already boasts experience advising House members and leadership on similar issues.

{mosads}He currently serves as the chief counsel at the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Energy and Commerce and is the principal legal adviser to Chairman Greg Walden (R-Ore.) and Republicans on the committee regarding communications and technology matters.

Before his time on the Hill, Redl was the director of regulatory affairs at the CTIA, a trade association representing wireless companies like AT&T, Dish and Verizon in government.

The CTIA praised the decision Tuesday, congratulating Redl on nomination.

“His nomination demonstrates the Administration’s recognition of the need to identify new spectrum opportunities and to continue driving the investment, innovation and job creation that makes America the world’s leader in mobile broadband,” the group said in a statement.

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai praised the White House’s move.

“He is also a skillful expert in communications issues central to NTIA’s mission of ensuring that the Internet remains an engine for innovation and economic growth,” Pai said. “The FCC has long had a close partnership with NTIA, and I personally look forward to continuing that relationship with that agency under David’s leadership.”