Rep. Hank Johnson’s statement on Comcast’s Proposed Acquisition of Time Warner Cable

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-GA) today made the following statement concerning the announcement of a proposed merger between Comcast and Time Warner Cable. Rep. Johnson is the ranking member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law (RRCAL), which exercises jurisdiction over antitrust laws and competition.

“The proposed merger of Comcast and Time Warner Cable raises important questions about competition in the communications industry. Although Comcast does not compete with Time Warner Cable, this merger would combine two of the four largest cable operations and expand Comcast’s coverage across 42 states and into 30 million homes.

“This merger will occur at a time when the communications marketplace is swiftly evolving. In the past decade alone, dynamic new entrants like Netflix and Hulu have emerged to offer video services that benefit consumers. Other companies like AT&T, Google, and Verizon continue to innovate and provide consumers with more broadband choices. As we review the proposed merger for its effect on competition, choice, and costs, we must keep an eye to protect future innovation within this marketplace.

“As part of its commitment to the public following its merger with NBCU, Comcast has provided thousands of households in Atlanta and throughout Georgia with low-cost, high-speed Internet service, affordable computers, and digital literacy training. This program benefits families without access to broadband. I encourage Comcast to maintain its commitment to the success of minorities and society through fast and affordable broadband services as part of the proposed merger.

“The House Judiciary Committee has a long history of upholding competition in the marketplace and protecting consumers, and I am pleased that the RRCAL subcommittee will have a leading role in examining the proposed merger. I look forward to this opportunity to ensure that the proposed merger will benefit consumers, workers, and competition in the marketplace.”

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