FCC Shakeup: Simington Exits, Trump Ally Gavin Wax Tipped as Youngest Commissioner

In a surprising turn of events, Federal Communications Commissioner Nathan Simington is set to depart the agency sooner than anticipated, leaving behind a vacancy that could reshape the FCC's landscape. According to an internal memo, Simington, whose term technically expired last year, was expected to stay until the end of 2025. His abrupt exit now paves the way for fresh blood in this critical regulatory body.

Enter Gavin Wax, a 31-year-old New Yorker and staunch ally of President Donald Trump, who is being seriously considered as Simington’s replacement. If confirmed, Wax would make history as the youngest FCC commissioner ever—and the youngest presidential nominee to earn Senate approval. A source close to the FCC highlighted Wax as a bold conservative voice in tech and media policy, with deep connections in both political and policy spheres. His prior role as President of the New York Young Republican Club, a group Trump has supported at their annual gala, only strengthens his ties to the White House.

Wax isn’t just a political insider; he’s also vocal about his vision. In a recent op-ed, he praised Vice President JD Vance’s work, hinting at ambitious goals for Vance’s potential future presidential run post-Trump. Should Wax be nominated by President Trump, the Senate confirmation process will be the next hurdle in this unfolding story.

The FCC, tasked with overseeing everything from media and broadband to national emergency communications, holds immense sway over how Americans connect and communicate. With a maximum of three commissioners from any single party, Wax’s potential appointment would fill the GOP vacancy left by Simington, maintaining the delicate balance of power within the agency.

This shakeup raises questions about the direction of media and tech regulation in the coming years. Will a younger, more outspoken commissioner steer the FCC toward uncharted territory? Only time—and the Senate—will tell.