US Official Criticizes Trump's Shift in Broadband Funding from Fiber to Starlink

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, has been installed at the White House to enhance internet access, as confirmed by White House officials. Initial concerns about potential conflicts with existing secure systems have been reportedly resolved during installation. A Commerce Department official, upon leaving office, voiced criticism of the government's preference for Starlink over fiber-optic projects, cautioning that it could negatively impact rural internet access. Democratic lawmakers are currently investigating potential violations of conflict-of-interest laws in actions taken concerning Starlink, given that alterations to grant rules stand to financially benefit the project significantly.