Federal Communications Commission Chairman and Trumper Ajit Pai

A new rule championed by Federal Communications Commission Chairman Ajit Pai would would limit internet and phone access for millions of low-income and elderly Americans.

Pai’s proposed changes to the Lifeline Program, which currently serves 12 million Americans by providing subsidized phone and internet service, would cut service to about 70 percent, or 8 million, of them. Many of these recipients live in Puerto Rico, and rely on Lifeline for assistance as they recover from Hurricane Irma.

Last week, a group of Democratic Senators including Kamala Harris, Bernie Sanders, Kirsten Gillibrand Jeff Merkley, Bernie Sanders, Edward J. Markey, Ron Wyden, Richard Blumenthal, Elizabeth Warren, Dick Durbin and Cory Booker wrote a letter to the chairman questioning his motives.

“The Lifeline Program is essential for millions of Americans who rely on subsidized internet access to find jobs, schedule doctor’s appointments, complete their school assignments, interface with the government, and remain connected in a digital economy,” they wrote. “The program helps Americans — including disproportionate numbers of families with children, […]