Evan Feinman resigned from his role directing the $42.5 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, which is intended to enhance internet access in underserved American areas. He cautioned that shifting focus from fiber-based solutions to satellite internet, such as that offered by Starlink, could bring about "deeply negative outcomes." Secretary Howard Lutnick noted the program's lack of connections to the internet, citing regulatory challenges and favoritism as key obstacles to success. The BEAD program emerged from the Biden infrastructure bill and offers significant funding for internet enhancements.
Evan Feinman expressed concerns that a potential overhaul of the BEAD program could result in significant adverse impacts, while also enriching prominent figures like Elon Musk.
Secretary Howard Lutnick admitted the program has yet to connect anyone to the internet, attributing this failure to 'woke mandates' and regulatory complications.
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