August 11, 1997

On August 8, 1997, the Commission released a Public Notice stating that is was unable to reach final resolution as to the fate of the personal attack and political editorial rules. I am extremely disappointed that after extensive deliberation regarding the continued enforcement of these rules that this Commission was not able to establish a majority for final resolution of the issues. Although the Commissioners and the Chairman held lengthy discussions in a good faith attempt to resolve our differing positions, it appears that the result is a 2-2 tie.

I am heartened, however, that there will be three new Commissioners and a new Chairman at the Commission soon. As a result, the new Commission will be able to take up consideration of the continued application of these rules.