5G Fixed Wireless May Get Boost Under Trump Administration

Industry observers are anticipating potential shifts in US broadband policy that could favor 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) providers over traditional fiber and cable operators under President Trump's second term. While no concrete policies have been announced, several signs point to a possible pivot in how federal broadband funds are allocated.

A key focus is the $42 billion Broadband Equity Access and Deployment (BEAD) program, initiated under the Biden administration primarily to support fiber deployments. Policy experts and Washington insiders suggest the program could be modified to embrace cheaper alternatives like fixed wireless and satellite broadband.

Arielle Roth, rumored to be Trump's pick to lead the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), could play a crucial role in this shift. Roth's current boss, Senator Ted Cruz, has already urged the NTIA to eliminate what he calls "extreme technology bias" in BEAD and reduce "excessive per-location costs" - essentially advocating for a move away from fiber toward wireless solutions.

The wireless industry appears optimistic about the potential changes. Patrick Halley, CEO of the Wireless Infrastructure Association, noted Trump's familiarity with 5G issues from his first term and expressed hope for continued support. The appointment of Brendan Carr to lead the FCC, known for his pro-wireless stance, further bolsters these expectations.

Such policy changes would benefit major 5G carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile, along with smaller FWA providers. However, they could potentially disadvantage traditional broadband providers like AT&T, Comcast, and Charter Communications, who are already facing increasing competition from FWA operators.

While Trump's initial executive orders didn't directly address telecommunications policy, industry experts anticipate more relevant directives in the coming months as the administration settles in.

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