Carr, a long-standing commission member, previously served as the FCC's general counsel. The Senate unanimously confirmed him three times, and he was nominated to the commission by both Trump and President Joe Biden.

The FCC, an independent agency overseen by Congress, has been suggested by Trump to be brought under tighter White House control. This move is partly aimed at using the agency to penalise TV networks that cover him unfavourably.

Recently, Carr has aligned with Trump's views on social media and technology. He contributed a section on the FCC in "Project 2025," a comprehensive plan by the conservative Heritage Foundation to overhaul the federal workforce and dismantle federal agencies in a potential second Trump administration.

Carr has vowed in recent days to take on what he calls a “censorship cartel” that includes Facebook, Google, Apple, and Microsoft.

Although Trump has claimed ignorance of Project 2025, many of its themes resonate with his statements.

In congratulating Trump on his victory, Carr promised "the FCC will have an important role to play reining in Big Tech, ensuring that broadcasters operate in the public interest and unleashing economic growth."

Carr has also been a vocal supporter of billionaire Elon Musk and has advocated stricter restrictions on China.

Trump praised Carr, stating, "Commissioner Carr is a warrior for Free Speech and has fought against the regulatory Lawfare that has stifled Americans' freedoms and held back our economy. He will end the regulatory onslaught that has been crippling America's job creators and innovators and ensure that the FCC delivers for rural America."

The five-person commission currently has a 3-2 Democratic majority, but this balance will shift next year when Trump appoints a new member.