CWA's Frank Mathews sounds alarm on broadband equity threats

Frank Mathews, District 4 Administrative Director for the Communications Workers of America (CWA), joined the America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss threats to broadband equity, the push for fiber over satellite internet and proposed Medicaid cuts.

Mathews began by discussing his concerns over recent attempts to alter the Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program. He explained that after years of preparation, many states are ready to begin fiber optic broadband construction. However, new proposals from the U.S. Commerce Department could force states to restart their planning processes and favor less reliable satellite internet options over fiber. Mathews argued that this shift would disproportionately impact rural communities, perpetuating the digital divide and potentially funneling taxpayer money to billionaire-owned satellite companies instead of creating local jobs.

Next, Mathews discussed the ongoing debate over fiber optics versus satellite internet. He emphasized fiber's superiority in terms of reliability, longevity and capacity. While satellite internet has its place in extremely remote areas, he said it shouldn't be prioritized over fiber for most of the country. Mathews warned that favoring satellite could undermine the bipartisan infrastructure bill's goals of creating jobs and stimulating local economies through broadband expansion.

Shifting focus, Mathews discussed proposed cuts to Medicaid in the ongoing budget negotiations. He warned that the $880 billion proposed cuts would likely harm seniors and rural communities and overburden the healthcare system. Mathews urged listeners to contact their representatives, especially those in swing districts, to oppose these cuts. He emphasized his concern that these reductions are being proposed to fund tax breaks for the wealthy, not to address genuine budget concerns.

Listen to the full episode above for more from Mathews on broadband equity and potential Medicaid cuts.