Commissioner Geoffrey Starks To Depart FCC

FCC Commissioner Geoffrey Starks officially announced his resignation during Thursday’s open meeting, concluding a nearly six-year tenure as the Commission’s senior Democratic member. His departure shifts the agency into a Republican majority, with Democrat Anna Gomez now the sole non-Republican on the panel.

“This has been the role and an honor of a lifetime,” said Starks, who was nominated by President Donald Trump and confirmed in early 2019. “If riding 5,000 miles in 10 days helps even one family stay close during a tough time, then saddle up — I’m all in.”

Starks reflected on his time at the Commission, emphasizing his dedication to public service and his efforts on affordable connectivity, national security, and digital equity. He previously served in the FCC’s Enforcement Bureau, the U.S. Department of Justice, and private legal practice.

During Thursday’s meeting, his colleagues praised his legacy and bipartisan spirit.

“You leave behind an impressive legacy in public service,” said FCC Chairman Brendan Carr. “We were able to collaborate on a number of items and get some really good, significant wins for innovation, for competition, for opportunities.”

Commissioner Nathan Simington added, “While we often approached issues from different perspectives, I appreciated his professionalism and his commitment to the work of the Commission. I wish him the very best in his next chapter.”

Commissioner Anna Gomez offered similar praise: “His commitment to public service and leadership on affordable connectivity and national security efforts made a significant impact on the FCC’s success. Equally as important to me, he has been a supportive friend and colleague.”

Starks originally announced his resignation plans in March, noting in a letter to President Trump and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer that serving on the FCC had been the “honor of my life.” He committed to continuing his work until the official resignation, including collaborating with colleagues to advance the agency’s goals.

His exit follows the earlier departure of former FCC Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel, leaving the Commission with a 2-1 Republican majority. Meanwhile, Republican nominee Olivia Trusty awaits a full Senate vote. Though expected to be confirmed, some Senate Democrats have signaled they may withhold support unless a Democratic nominee is advanced in parallel to maintain political balance at the agency.