Connected Nation congratulates Arielle Roth on Senate confirmation to lead NTIA
Washington, DC (July 23, 2025) – Connected Nation, a national nonprofit working to close the Digital Divide, applauds the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Arielle Roth as Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Communications and Information.
In this role, Ms. Roth will serve as Administrator of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), where she will lead one of the most consequential federal broadband initiatives in American history: the $42.45 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program.
With her confirmation, Ms. Roth takes the helm at a pivotal time for the United States. The successful implementation of the BEAD Program will determine whether every American—regardless of zip code—can access affordable, high-speed internet. Just as importantly, the program will help lay the digital foundation needed to power American innovation and national competitiveness in an era increasingly driven by artificial intelligence.
“Ms. Roth’s confirmation could not come at a more important time,” said Tom Ferree, Chairman & CEO, Connected Nation. “NTIA’s leadership of the BEAD Program is central to America’s broadband future and to winning the global race for leadership in artificial intelligence. With her exceptional background having worked for Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz and former FCC Commissioner Michael O’Rielly, and her deep understanding of communications policy, Ms. Roth is the right person to guide this once-in-a-generation investment and ensure it delivers lasting impact for all Americans.”
Connected Nation stands ready to support the NTIA in advancing policies and partnerships that close the Digital Divide, strengthen U.S. telecommunications infrastructure, and position the country to lead in the technologies of tomorrow.
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About us: Connected Nation is a national nonprofit, founded in 2001, with a mission to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand access to and increase the adoption and use of broadband (high-speed internet) and its related technologies for all people – no matter where they live or how they began. Everyone belongs in a Connected Nation. connectednation.org