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Emergency crews are deploying Starlink terminals in the Carolinas after a hurricane hampered rescue efforts. The FCC previously revoked a billion-dollar grant for Starlink to provide broadband to 19,522 sites in North Carolina.
In 2021, the Biden administration allocated $42.5 billion for rural broadband, but no connections have been made, and none are expected before 2026. Fiber optics providers lobbied to exclude Starlink, which quoted $120 per connection, while fiber could cost $4,000. The FCC rejected Starlink, citing responsible use of public funds, and accused it of being a monopoly for undercutting prices. Republicans on the FCC supported Starlink, accusing the Biden-Harris administration of prioritizing ideological goals.
The Communications Workers of America, a major donor to Democrats, represents fiber installers. While rural Americans can purchase Starlink, taxpayers will still pay $42.5 billion.