Common Cause releases media reform agenda for the next Administration

Today, Common Cause released its vision for the future of media and democracy in America. The report, titled "Media and Democracy in America Today: A Reform Plan for a New Administration," lays out a plan of action for the next President and Congress to take to ensure the media performs its appropriate role in our democracy.

One of the key recommendations in this report cannot wait for a new administration to consider it: to halt a move to further consolidate the media. Congress is currently considering a "Resolution of Disapproval" of the Federal Communication Commission's new media ownership rules. The report calls for the passage of House Joint Resolution 79, which would overturn the FCC's new rules and halt further media consolidation.

"The American public needs diverse sources of news if we are to be able to be educated participants in our democracy," Common Cause President Bob Edgar said. "Congress must take action now to tell the FCC to consider what is in the public's best interest instead of what is in the corporations' best interest."

Other recommendations in the report focus on protecting the democratic nature of the internet, supporting community media, increasing diversity of media ownership and improving the digital TV transition process.

Looking forward, Jon Bartholomew, Media and Democracy Campaign Coordinator for Common Cause noted, "In the coming year, a new President will enter the White House and the makeup of Congress is likely to be considerably different than today. This presents an enormous opportunity to improve the media in America. We urge a new administration and new Congress to take the bold steps necessary to ensure that the media is a full partner in enhancing our democracy and serving the public. The reforms outlined in this report will take us long way to achieving that goal."