FCC Seeks Review of AT&T Merger With T-Mobile

The New York Times: FCC chairman Julius Genachowski has moved to block the proposed $39 billion merger between AT&T and T-Mobile. Genachowski says he will refer the deal to a hearing before an administrative law judge, where AT&T will be required to show that the merger is “in the public interest.” “The record clearly shows that, in no uncertain terms, this merger would result in a massive loss of U.S. jobs and investment,” said a senior FCC official.

AT&T’s Larry Solomon said the move was “disappointing.” “It is yet another example of a government agency acting to prevent billions in new investment and the creation of many thousands of new jobs at a time when the U.S. economy desperately needs both,” Solomon added. “At this time, we are reviewing all options.”