ilnitro~tatr.s~rnatc WASHINGTON, DC 20510 June 17,2010 The Honorable Julius Genachowski The Honorable Michael Copps The Honorable Robert McDowell The Honorable Mignon Clyburn The Honorable Meredith Attwell Baker Federal Communications Commission 445 Twelfth Street., S.W. Washington, D.C. 20554 Re: Applications ofAT&TInc. and Verizon Wireless, WT Docket No. 09-104 Dear Chairman and Commissioners: We are writing to urge you to promptly rule on the purchase by AT&T ofwireless systems that~erizon Wireless is required to divest in certain rural areas in connection with its ALLTEL acquisition. the FCC has had over a year to consider this transaction, and there is no basis for further delay. I I We understand that AT&T intends to invest approximately $400 million in connection with this: , transaction, the majority ofthat investment in rural areas. This could create jobs and stimulate tile economy across rural America, which is crucial in difficult economic times like these. Ifapproved, this transaction will bring AT&T's service to many new areas. In Wyoming,sixtee~ counties would be added to AT&T's service area. ConsUll1ers in these counties would haveacce~sto many ofthe benefits that AT&T offers, including America's fastest third generation (3G) mobile broadband network with simultaneous voice and data capabilities, rollover minutes, and a wides~lection ofnew smart-phones and devices. Delaying this decision is unfair to consumers in Wyoming wllo are eager to utilize AT&T's wireless devices and more importantly, AT&T's reliable network. The Department ofJustice's Antitrust Division has reviewed and approved the transaction and we understand that the transaction does not pose any threat to competition. There are nUll1erous important issues at stake with this decision -- investment, job creation, an irr).proved telecommunications infrastructure for rural America, more choices for conSUll1ers, and increased: competition. We respectfully urge you to take prompt action on this transaction. I ~Eori.y United States Senator Sincerely, John Barrasso, M.D. United States Senator