Why It Matters
The Competitive Carriers Association continues its shift toward internal advocacy after decades of external partnerships. The Q3 2025 disclosure marks another quarter of in-house work, contrasting with prior engagements with firms such as TwinLogic Strategies LLP and Baker & Hostetler LLP.
By the Numbers
- Current spending: $160,000 in Q3 2025 for in-house lobbying
- Historical context: CCA has filed 179 lobbying disclosures since 2004, spending $10.9 million total. Their in-house team has handled 60 disclosures worth $8.7 million since 2010.
- The team: Four in-house lobbyists led the effort: Timothy Donovan, Maribeth Elissa Collins, John Addison Howes Jr., and Emerald N. Litke-Smith.
Broader Context
Congress is grappling with expired FCC spectrum auction authority and slow BEAD program implementation. Lawmakers from both parties have expressed frustration with broadband deployment delays. Recent cybersecurity threats to telecommunications infrastructure have heightened security concerns across the industry.
The Agenda
CCA lobbied on telecommunications policy, tax issues, and broadband deployment. Their focus includes spectrum allocation, Universal Service Fund reform, and network security. The organization consistently advocates for rural broadband expansion and wireless competition policies across its lobbying history.
Competitive Landscape
Major carriers dominate the lobbying space. T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon maintain large operations on similar issues. Tech companies such as Google and Samsung also compete for attention on spectrum and 5G policy.
Between The Lines
CCA testified at House hearings on “Fixing Biden’s Broadband Blunder”, giving them direct input on BEAD oversight. The Senate Commerce Committee held hearings on spectrum auction delays, highlighting urgency around restoring FCC authority.
Legislation and Advocacy
Key legislation referenced includes H.R.651 – Spectrum Pipeline Act of 2025 and H.R.4032 – Lowering Broadband Costs for Consumers Act. Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC) has championed Open RAN technology that benefits competitive carriers.
The Bottom Line
CCA maintains steady advocacy during active congressional telecommunications debates. Their experienced in-house team provides consistent representation for smaller carriers competing against industry giants, requiring sustained engagement on spectrum, broadband, and security issues.