Charter Gets FCC Permission To Buy Cox, Become Largest ISP In the US

Charter Communications, under the Spectrum brand, aims to become the largest home internet provider by acquiring Cox Communications. Charter currently has 29.7 million internet customers, trailing Comcast's 31.26 million. The Cox acquisition, worth $34.5 billion, would add 5.9 million customers to Charter's base. The FCC approved the merger, but it still requires approval from the Justice Department and several states. Opponents worry the merger will lead to higher prices by reducing competition. Despite these concerns, the FCC dismissed them, citing limited direct competition between Charter and Cox. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr focused on eliminating diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Charter committed to safeguards against DEI discrimination as a condition of approval. The FCC's press release highlighted Charter's promises of expanded network access and reduced prices in rural areas. The merger was approved quickly after Charter communicated its actions to end DEI practices. Charter currently operates in 41 states, while Cox serves 18.