WASHINGTON, DC:  Today, Rep. Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Telecommunications and the Internet, released a statement reacting to the news that Mr. Kenneth Y. Tomlinson intends to step down as Chairman of the Broadcasting Board of Governors.

“The resignation of Mr. Tomlinson from the Broadcasting Board of Governors is welcome news for those who want to improve the image and reputation of the United States and convey positive images and messages about our nation to the world in a manner that is bipartisan and de-politicized.  I urge the Bush Administration to seize upon this opportunity to nominate a new Chairman for the Broadcasting Board of Governors who will better reflect the Board's long history of bipartisanship in fulfilling its important mission."