Former FCC Commissioner Michael Copps Joins Common Cause Board

Michael J. Copps, whose decade-long tenure on the Federal Communications Commission was marked by relentless advocacy for “a media that reflects the needs of the people,” is joining Common Cause’s National Governing Board.

“Michael Copps is a distinguished public servant whose tireless support for media laws and regulations that serve the public interest and an internet that is open and accessible to all meshes perfectly with Common Cause’s reform agenda,” said Bob Edgar, president and CEO of Common Cause. “We’re fortunate that he’s chosen to continue his service beyond his retirement by joining our board.”

After a brief stint as a history professor in the 1960s, Copps embarked on a 40-year Washington career that included service as chief of staff for U.S. Sen. Ernest F. Hollings, D-S.C., and as an assistant secretary of commerce during the Clinton administration. Named to the FCC in 2001, he retired last December.

A native of Milwaukee, Wis., Copps is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate graduate of Wofford College. He holds a PhD degree in history from the University of North Carolina.