Milpitas, CA — As the nation prepares for a potential change in presidential administration, government officials are working to reassure stakeholders about the continuity of the country’s broadband infrastructure expansion efforts. Speaking at the Connecting Communities Summit in Silicon Valley, Evan Feinman, Director of the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program, emphasized that the mission to bridge the digital divide remains a national priority, regardless of political shifts.
“We are getting an awful lot done,” Feinman told an audience of broadband industry leaders gathered at the headquarters of Tarana Wireless. “And I believe that whether that leadership is the current leadership or future leadership, the goal will be to get this done for the American people. And that’s what’s going to happen.”
A Long-Term Vision for Broadband Expansion
The BEAD program, administered by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), represents the largest federal investment in broadband infrastructure in U.S. history. Designed as a 10-year initiative, the program aims to connect unserved and underserved communities by funding the construction of high-speed internet infrastructure across the country.
Feinman acknowledged that political changes were anticipated over the course of the program’s decade-long timeline. “Political changes, or not, there was going to be significant personnel turnover over the course of a decade, regardless,” he said. “What matters is the continuity of the mission and the commitment to delivering results.”
Industry Leaders Seek Assurance
The Connecting Communities Summit brought together key players from the broadband private sector to discuss the future of connectivity in the U.S. With the potential for shifts in federal leadership, some industry representatives voiced concerns about possible delays or changes in policy direction.
Feinman sought to allay these fears, emphasizing the bipartisan nature of the BEAD program’s goals. “This initiative is about ensuring every American has access to reliable, high-speed internet,” he said. “That’s not a partisan issue—it’s a national imperative.”
Political Support for Broadband Expansion
Both Republican and Democratic leaders have expressed support for the BEAD program, recognizing its critical role in driving economic growth and social equity. U.S. Senator John Thune, a Republican from South Dakota, recently highlighted the importance of broadband in rural areas. “Reliable internet is the lifeblood of modern agriculture, education, and healthcare in our rural communities,” Thune said. “We need to ensure these projects continue without interruption.”
“I don’t anticipate any of that funding gets clawed back,” Diane Rinaldo, the former acting administrator of the NTIA during the first Trump administration, said in comments at the summit. “I think there will be a big push to get the money out the door, and get projects moving, and get people connected.”
Progress and Challenges
Since its launch, the BEAD program has made significant strides, with states submitting detailed broadband plans and initial funding allocations being disbursed. However, challenges remain, including supply chain constraints and workforce shortages.
Feinman highlighted these hurdles but remained optimistic about the program’s trajectory. “We’re tackling these challenges head-on,” he said. “The partnerships we’re building with states, local governments, and the private sector are key to overcoming them.”
The Road Ahead
The BEAD program was designed and envisioned as a 10-year project, said Feinman, and changes in political leadership were expected. “Political changes, or not, there was going to be significant personnel turnover over the course of a decade, regardless,” he noted.
For updates on the BEAD program and its impact, visit the NTIA’s website: NTIA BEAD Program.
