>>25104988
Elon Musk's Starlink did not receive the rural broadband money it sought from the Biden-era government; in fact, it was explicitly denied.
The situation involves a complex conflict between satellite internet (Starlink) and fiber-optic cable:
The Denied Funding: In 2023, the FCC (under the Biden administration) turned down Starlink for a nearly $900 million rural broadband contract after initially awarding it.
The agency cited concerns that Starlink's technology was too nascent and could not consistently meet the required speed thresholds.
The "Fiber" Preference: The Biden administration prioritized fiber-optic cables for rural expansion, arguing that fiber is faster, more affordable in the long run, and requires less maintenance than satellites, which must be replaced every few years.
Musk's Reaction: Musk and his supporters (including some Republican FCC officials) called this decision "insane," arguing that Starlink could have connected rural homes much faster and at a lower cost per household than digging trenches for fiber.
Current Context (2025-2026):
Under the Trump administration, there has been a shift toward a "tech neutral" approach to the $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) program.
This change removes the preference for fiber, potentially opening the door for Starlink to receive federal grants that were previously blocked or restricted.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/zacharyfolk/2024/01/22/elon-musk-renews-conflict-with-biden-administration-after-millions-announced-in-subsidies-for-rural-internet/
https://broadbandbreakfast.com/fcc-commissioner-brendan-carr-elon-musk-swipe-over-starlink-at-biden-fcc/
https://www.npr.org/2025/03/28/nx-s1-5338963/musk-starlink-broadband-commerce