Starlink Benefits as Trump Admin Rewrites Rules for $42B Grant Program
The Trump administration's changes to the BEAD grant program are set to significantly benefit Starlink, potentially allowing the satellite internet provider to receive up to $20 billion, a substantial increase from the earlier estimate of $4.1 billion. Critics, such as the Benton Institute for Broadband & Society, argue that the shift towards a "technology-neutral" strategy undermines the advantages of fiber broadband, which is recognized for its superior performance and reliability. As states gain control over the distribution of these funds, the evolving rules could reshape the competitive landscape of internet service providers across the nation.
- This shift in funding strategy highlights the growing tension between traditional broadband technologies and emerging satellite solutions, potentially redefining consumer access to high-speed internet in rural and underserved areas.
- Will the prioritization of satellite internet over fiber optics ultimately compromise the quality of broadband services for millions of Americans?