Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 83° Today's Paper


Business

FCC head Pai skips CES tech show after threats

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai arrives for an FCC meeting in Washington on Dec. 14. Published reports say Pai is skipping the CES gadget show because of death threats. Pai has scrapped popular net-neutrality rules that had barred broadband providers like AT&T, Comcast and Verizon from interfering with internet traffic. The policy’s supporters have reacted strongly. Pai and his staff have called out racist tweets and death threats against the chairman.

NEW YORK >> Published reports say Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai is skipping the CES gadget show because of death threats.

Pai has scrapped popular net-neutrality rules that had barred broadband providers like AT&T, Comcast and Verizon from interfering with internet traffic. The policy’s supporters have reacted strongly. Pai and his staff have called out racist tweets and death threats against the chairman. The Dec. 14 vote was halted for unidentified security reasons, with a brief evacuation and search of the hearing room.

Pai was supposed to speak on a CES panel in Las Vegas next week. The Wall Street Journal , tech blog Recode and others reported the death threats, citing unidentified people.

The FCC confirmed his withdrawal, but spokesman Brian Hart says the agency doesn’t comment on security measures or concerns.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.