"The merger is in the public interest and will provide consumers with greater flexibility and choices," said FCC Chairman Kevin Martin in a statement. "Consumers will enjoy a variety of programming at reduced prices and more diversified programming choices. It will also spur innovation and advance the development and use of interoperable radios, bringing more flexible programming options to all subscribers."
As anticipated, GOP Commissioner Deborah Tate voted with her Republican colleagues in a 3-2 party-line split to approve the transaction. Tate, who held the deciding vote, agreed to support the deal if Martin agreed to stringent penalties for XM and Sirius for a variety of violations prior to approving the transaction. -
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