LNTT Recap: Key Tech & Telecom Policy Trends for 2025

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In the first webinar of 2025, industry experts Mike Dano (Editorial Director, 5G & Mobile Strategies, Light Reading), Shane Tews (President, Logan Circle Strategies & Fellow, AEI), and Tricia Paoletta (Partner, Harris, Wiltshire & Grannis LLP) offered their insights on the major policy issues likely to shape Washington, D.C. in the coming year.

The discussion covered a broad range of topics, from mergers and acquisitions to spectrum policy and AI innovation. While the Trump administration’s stance on antitrust enforcement remains uncertain, panelists agreed that its approach to mergers and acquisitions will likely be evaluated on a case-by-case basis rather than through sweeping policy shifts. Merger activity among major cable providers appears unlikely, though smaller fiber providers may see increased consolidation.

On the spectrum front, the administration has emphasized the need to address looming shortages for mobile network operators, but progress remains stalled due to resistance from the Department of Defense. Meanwhile, the future of federal connectivity subsidies remains in flux. While some form of support is expected to continue, the structure may look quite different from the current Broadband Equity and Access Deployment program (BEAD).

Attention is also on the Federal Communications Commission, particularly in its efforts to comply with the Executive Order on DEI. Should Congress restore the FCC’s auction authority, the Carr-led FCC is expected to focus on swiftly making more spectrum available.

Beyond regulatory concerns, AI took center stage at CES 2025, with a particular focus on its transformative potential in healthcare applications.

For a deeper dive into these discussions, you can watch or listen to the full conversation below.