ChipPickering

Job creation, small and mid-sized businesses, and the innovators/innovation,would be harmed, and the pro-growth benefits of an Open Internet, would be reduced. That's why companies like Kickstarter, AngelList, the National Realtors Association, and associations that represent these critical sectors of our economy, all support Open Internet principles that preserve the Internet as we know it.

This is a debate between pro-growth free market, best for the country, best for the individual, best for the markets, versus incumbent protection. The past success and the merits are on our side, and the growing political support across the country gives us the momentum to prevail.

1. The Open Internet is extremely successful and is a driver of economic growth. It is the most successful economic technology policy in our lifetime. 2. There has been industry and bi-partisan support for an Open Internet from the very beginning. 3. We cannot afford to have barriers and tolls established on an open and free Internet.

Unfortunately, it's a recent development. Michael Powell, a Republican Chairman of the FCC, was the first FCC Chairman to adopt net neutrality principles. Kevin Martin, another Republican FCC Chairman, enforced the principles and there was a bi-partisan commitment in Congress throughout the '90's and up until the last 4 years. But the same principles of an Open Internet guide Republican philosophy on free trade, and the promotion of free markets. The hope, as we go forward, is to restore the bi-partisan commitment to an open and free Internet.

Failure is not an option. Not only will we succeed in the Open Internet proceeding by the end of the year, but there are major mergers where Open Internet conditions will be required for companies wishing to merge. We have multiple battles and opportunities. Each will reinforce the same policy.