FCC Approves AT&T–U.S. Cellular Spectrum Deal After Carrier Agrees to End DEI Programs

The Federal Communications Commission has approved AT&T ($T)'s $1.02 billion purchase of wireless spectrum licenses from U.S. Cellular after the carrier agreed to end its diversity, equity and inclusion programs, a condition the FCC has applied to telecom transactions under the Trump administration. The agency said the transaction will enhance AT&T’s network, and public records show the company remains one of the highest-spending corporate lobbyists in 2025.

• The FCC confirmed approval of AT&T’s deal Thursday following DEI-policy commitments required for telecom transactions.
• The $1.02 billion acquisition covers a set of U.S. Cellular wireless spectrum licenses.
• The FCC stated the deal will support improvements to AT&T’s network performance.
• AT&T has logged more than $7 million in federal lobbying expenditures in 2025, according to filings
• Lobbying activity focused heavily on telecommunications policy, taxation, and regulatory issues.

Relevant Companies

• AT&T ($T) – Direct party to the approved spectrum purchase and subject to FCC conditions.

Editor’s Note: This is a developing story. This article may be updated as more details become available.