Federal Communications Commission Chairman Kevin J. Martin has announced his resignation after four years of overseeing the telecommunications infrastructures during the Bush administration. The resignation will become effective as of January 20.

 

According to a public statement by Martin, he leaves the office with great pride in the FCC’s accomplishments and with deep gratitude for having the opportunity to serve the American public.

 

He also highlighted his philosophy as Chairman of the FCC to encourage investment in communications infrastructure, and watch for consumer interest at the same time.

 

Martin also announced that upon departure, he will serve as a senior Fellow at the Aspen Institute in Washington D.C.

 

During his four years as head of the Federal Communications Commission, Martin completed the largest auction in the commission’s history for the 700 MHz spectrum, which managed to raise $19.6 billion last year. Furthermore, Martin also supported the idea of using the white spaces spectrum for wireless broadband services.

 

Chairman Martin was an active supporter of the network neutrality principles, and his ideas was clearly stated during the investigation on Comcast’s network management practices. Martin kept a firm position regarding users’ rights to have access to lawful Internet content of their choice, without being restricted.

 

Martin also oversaw the transition from analog TV to digital TV, which will take place on February 17, 2009, and expressed concern over the possibility of postponing the switch. In his opinion, this would create confusion for consumers.