Sen. Cruz - Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation | Official U.S. Senate headshot
Sen. Cruz - Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation | Official U.S. Senate headshot
U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz has called on Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard to investigate potential interference by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in American telecommunications advancements. In a letter, Cruz highlighted concerns that the CCP and related entities like Huawei may be conducting misinformation campaigns to hinder the reauthorization of the Federal Communication Commission’s (FCC) spectrum auction authority and the development of a commercial spectrum pipeline.
Cruz emphasized the importance of auctioning government-held spectrum for economic growth, national security, and maintaining U.S. leadership in global technology. He noted previous committee hearings where experts testified about the benefits of expanding commercial access to mid-band spectrum, which include strengthening national security and creating high-paying jobs.
In his letter, Cruz stated: "I write today regarding a possible malign influence and misinformation campaign centered around American leadership in next generation technologies, and in particular telecommunications technology." He expressed concern over foreign adversaries potentially undermining efforts to bolster American leadership in telecommunications.
FCC Chairman Brendan Carr supported these views, noting: "U.S. leadership in wireless is also part and parcel of America’s geopolitical leadership and national security."
Cruz further warned about China's efforts to dominate global communication networks through state-subsidized companies like Huawei and ZTE. He cited China’s Ministry of Industry and Information's advancements in 5G mid-band allocations as evidence of their intent to lead future 5G and 6G developments.
The letter also mentioned potential espionage activities by the CCP within U.S. defense establishments, aiming to exploit divisions regarding spectrum commercialization. Cruz urged an investigation into any CCP involvement obstructing FCC spectrum auction authority reauthorization or spectrum pipeline creation.
He concluded by requesting Gabbard to communicate findings confidentially due to the sensitive nature of the inquiry.
Read the full text of this letter HERE.
Alerts Sign-up