White House won't appeal media ruling

[NVMojo]

All I can say is "HUH?" and how does Powell's resignation fit into this equation?


WASHINGTON — The Bush administration yesterday abandoned plans to ask the Supreme Court to allow controversial rules to take effect that would have loosened restrictions on how large media conglomerates could grow.

The decision disappointed big media companies that had lobbied heavily in support of the rules and thrilled those who had fought to keep tighter rein on how much control one company should have over television, newspapers and radio stations in individual markets.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) adopted the proposed rules in a hotly contested 3-2, party-line vote in June 2003. It must now decide whether to start anew on rules governing media consolidation or to re-argue its case before a lower court that the current proposals should be approved.


Powell leaving

The chief architect of the rules, FCC Chairman Michael Powell, is leaving in March, so the next step will be guided by his successor, who has not been named.

more...

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/politics/2002163087_mediaownership28.html

[Nothing Without Hope]

1. Consolidation is a problem even with the CURRENT rules

There need to be rollbacks in this area, as evidenced by the obviously partisan decisions made by Bush-supporting owners of far too many newspapers and television channels.

But its good news both that the new rules have been blocked and also that Powell at least is leaving. I hope the new person isn't even worse.

[BuyingThyme]

2. Michael Powell is a Bush Hero

Michael Powell -- a.k.a. Colin Powell Jr. -- was assigned one task and one task only: To assure the reelection of George W. Bush.

The immediate future is no longer an issue.

Case closed.

[The Backlash Cometh]

3. Is this a backlash - a self-imposedpenalty- on the Bush Administration

for getting caught paying pundits for propaganda with public funds?

[Moderator]

4. duplicate topic

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x1189809