Why It Matters
T-Mobile faces a challenge to convert federal broadband funding into a competitive advantage. The Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program has distributed minimal funding despite authorization nearly three years ago, creating deployment uncertainty. T-Mobile’s lobbying through Hollis Public Affairs seeks to shape how billions in federal grants get distributed and remove regulatory barriers—essentially fighting for implementation rules that favor wireless carriers over competitors. With AT&T and CTIA equally engaged in the same battles, success or failure in Washington directly translates to market share gains or losses.
By the Numbers
T-Mobile USA Inc. paid Hollis Public Affairs $50,000 for fourth quarter 2025 lobbying work, continuing a relationship dating to March 2021 worth $1.07 million across 21 disclosures.
T-Mobile maintains a sprawling Washington operation with 79 internal lobbying disclosures totaling nearly $133 million since 2003, plus over 1,150 external firm disclosures. Core firms include Forbes Tate Partners LLC, Miller & Chevalier Chartered, and Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP handling telecom and tax issues, while newer hires like Fulcrum Public Affairs LLC address cybersecurity and competition.
The Agenda
Hollis Public Affairs has specialized exclusively in telecommunications policy for T-Mobile since 2021, focusing on implementation of broadband provisions in the American Rescue Plan Act and Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, advocacy on the Affordable Connectivity Program, and monitoring telecommunications provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act.
This complements T-Mobile’s broader multi-firm strategy addressing spectrum management, tax policy, and merger approvals through established Washington players.
Broader Context
The 119th Congress is actively reshaping telecommunications policy through multiple bills, including the H.R.339 Broadband Resiliency and Flexible Investment Act and H.R.5264 SPEED for Broadband Infrastructure Act of 2025, aimed at streamlining permitting for wireless facilities and reforming the BEAD program.
National security concerns have intensified urgency around domestic broadband deployment following congressional hearings on Global Networks at Risk and Securing Global Communications, highlighting vulnerabilities from foreign adversaries.
The BEAD program remains contentious, with Senators Capito and Wicker introducing legislation for flexibility, while over 40 members led by Senator Klobuchar and Representative Clyburn oppose changes they view as program weakening.
Between The Lines
Congressional committees have held high-profile hearings on strengthening American leadership in wireless technology and examining solutions to expedite broadband permitting, directly addressing deployment obstacles T-Mobile faces.
Rural broadband remains a priority through proposals like the H.R.3212 LAST ACRE Act of 2025, creating grant programs for agricultural connectivity. Bipartisan support exists for spectrum auction authority, with Representative Houchin backing efforts to restore FCC auction powers.
Competitive Landscape
T-Mobile faces intense competition from rivals advocating identical priorities. AT&T Services Inc. retained Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck LLP for $70,000 covering telecommunications infrastructure and spectrum—mirroring T-Mobile’s focus. AT&T also paid Baker & Hostetler LLP $50,000 for similar issues.
CTIA (The Wireless Association) filed $30,000 with Waneta Strategies LLC specifically targeting additional spectrum allocation and 5G infrastructure deployment. This creates a crowded advocacy space where T-Mobile must compete for influence over final legislation.
The Bottom Line
T-Mobile’s $50,000 fourth quarter 2025 payment to Hollis Public Affairs reflects its broader strategy focused on broadband funding implementation amid intense congressional activity on spectrum allocation and permitting reform. With competitors lobbying similar issues at similar intensity, T-Mobile’s specialized $1.07 million engagement with Hollis since 2021 represents targeted investment in navigating federal infrastructure programs that could determine wireless market dynamics.
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