FCC says fifth commish can vote on AT&T/BellSouth

The FCC's general counsel says it's OK for commissioner Robert McDowell to vote on the AT&T/BellSouth merger, even though McDowell used to lobby for CompTel, a group opposed to the deal. McDowell, a Republican, had recused himself. However, the other four commissioners are split 2-2 along party lines, Republicans in favor and Democrats opposed. McDowell has not said how he will vote, if at all. If he continues to abstain, the new Democratic-led Congress may wield some influence. If he votes for the merger, analysts say McDowell may come under scrutiny from congressional forces opposed to it. Tune in next week....

For more information about the FCC and the AT&T/BellSouth merger:
- read this article from BetaNews

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