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Ellis Scherer

Ellis Scherer

Policy Analyst

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Ellis Scherer is a policy analyst for broadband policy at ITIF. He previously worked as a national security consultant, and as an intern with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration. During his internship he worked on Doreen Bogdan-Martin’s campaign to become secretary-general of the International Telecommunication Union. He holds a B.A. in history and politics from UC Santa Cruz, and a M.Sc. in Homeland Security policy from American University.

Recent Publications

September 4, 2025

FCC Gives the US a Boost in Subsea Cable Competition With China

The FCC’s new rules to streamline subsea cable approvals strengthen U.S. competitiveness against China by cutting red tape, accelerating deployment, and encouraging investment in critical digital infrastructure.

August 22, 2025

The US Government Should Expand Its Push for Open RAN Adoption Worldwide

To counter China’s telecom dominance and restore U.S. competitiveness, policymakers should lead a global push for Open RAN standards that foster security, innovation, and fair competition.

August 8, 2025

Trump’s Copper Tariff Increases Are Threats to Communications Infrastructure

Trump’s proposed copper tariffs would supercharge theft, hike consumer costs, and entrench outdated broadband infrastructure—all while threatening public safety.

July 28, 2025

Comments to the FCC Regarding Modernizing Spectrum Sharing for Satellite Broadband

The Commission should seek to maximize the productivity of satellite spectrum by replacing EPFD limits with the degraded throughput methodology that is used for NGSO-NGSO spectrum sharing and for NGSO-GSO sharing in the V-band.

July 25, 2025

Why the Charter-Cox Merger Is a Win for Consumers

Deploying broadband infrastructure requires ISPs to incur steep upfront costs that they recoup over time in consumers’ monthly bills. Market concentration can help keep prices down by spreading out fixed costs among a larger number of customers.

July 7, 2025

Broadband Convergence Is Creating More Competition

Multiple broadband technologies are delivering high-speed Internet service to consumers, creating even more robust competition. Yet, regulations are misaligned with market realities and should be updated to help maximize the consumer benefits of this increasing competition.

June 23, 2025

California Should Modernize Its Carrier-of-Last-Resort Requirements

California’s outdated broadband laws are forcing providers to waste resources on obsolete copper lines, slowing progress and hurting consumers.

June 3, 2025

Congress and States Should Close Loopholes to Stop Broadband Vandals

Criminals in search of copper destroy broadband infrastructure, causing massive service disruptions. Local crime prevention efforts backed by changes to state and federal regulations will better protect critical communications networks.

April 30, 2025

Comments to the FCC Regarding the Upper C-Band

By leveraging market mechanisms, engaging critical stakeholders, and ensuring robust technical standards, the Commission can facilitate an efficient and effective allocation of the Upper C-band.

April 11, 2025

Comments to the FCC Regarding Identifying and Eliminating Unnecessary Rules and Regulations

Consumers will benefit from updated Federal Communications Commission rules that recognize technical and economic realities and foster a dynamic marketplace for years to come.

April 11, 2025

Comments to the FCC Regarding Submarine Cable Landing Licenses

Reforming the submarine cable landing license review process is essential for maintaining US leadership in global telecommunications infrastructure while ensuring appropriate national security protections.

February 10, 2025

State Satellite Programs Offer Lessons for U.S. Broadband Deployment

State broadband programs in Maine, New Mexico, and Texas are proving that LEO satellites can deliver fast, cost-effective internet to unserved areas for a fraction of the cost of fiber—offering a smarter way to close the digital divide.

More publications by Ellis Scherer

Recent Events and Presentations

February 26, 2025

Broadband Beneath the Waves: Understanding the World of Submarine Cables

Watch now for a panel discussion featuring submarine cable owners and operators as they delve into the past, present, and future of this essential industry. Learn about the technological advances, policy challenges, and global implications shaping the world beneath the waves.

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