WASHINGTON - June 16 - Free Press is urging the Senate to move swiftly to confirm Julius Genachowski as chair of the Federal Communications Commission.

At his nomination hearing today in the Senate Commerce Committee, Genachowski called the FCC "a 21st-century agency for the information age." He described his vision for the agency as "a model for excellence in government -- fighting for consumers and families, fostering investment and innovation via open, fair and data-driven processes."

Read Genachowski's testimony here: http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_files/GenachowskiOpeningStatement.pdf

Josh Silver, executive director of Free Press, issued the following statement:

"Julius Genachowski is the right person to lead the FCC and carry out President Obama's plan to get fast, affordable, open Internet to every home and business in America. He has a long history of experience, an expert understanding of the issues, and strong support across the public and private sectors.

"For years, the FCC has been stuck in reverse on critical issues like broadband competition and media ownership. We're confident that Genachowski's commitment to the public interest, his entrepreneurial eye, and his open, data-driven approach will finally move us forward.

"Acting Chairman Michael Copps has done a wonderful job leading the agency in the interim. But there is a lot of work to do, and we need all hands on deck at the FCC. We urge Congress to work quickly to confirm Julius Genachowski."