O’Rielly Proclaims 'False Narrative' Around Broadband Affordability Concerns
The former FCC commissioner noted that as consumer prices broadly rose 36% over the past 10 years, broadband pricing has declined.
WASHINGTON, Feb. 23, 2026 – Has “Silly Season” been declared on broadband affordability? Former Republican Federal Communications Commissioner Michael O’Rielly seems to think so.
In his appearance on the Cablefax YouTube show, O’Rielly said Feb. 20 that the communications industry should be viewed as an affordability success story, noting that consumers are getting more bang for their buck as technology has improved and offerings have expanded.
“In broadband, we’ve seen the speeds go up ninefold in the last decade. The same thing in wireless. Speeds are up. Capacity is up. So, you’re getting more for your dollar even as prices are dropping,” O’Rielly said.
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