Richard Beaird, senior deputy United States coordinator for international communications and information policy in the State Department, responded in similar fashion to a similar question posed by an audience member during a briefing on the issue at the National Press Club on Wednesday. Both diplomats also mentioned that Toure’s children are American citizens and residents.
While acknowledging Verveer’s expertise on the issue, Federal Communications Commission Commissioner Robert McDowell — a leader in sounding the alarm about a proposed U.N. Internet takeover in the U.S. since late 2011 — took a different approach to answering the question.
“What’s more important than looking at his background, I think, is looking at his public statements on [U.N. Internet-regulation], many of which I’ve cited in my testimony and other things,” McDowell said. “I think when you read them, they speak for themselves.”
“And that’s concerning,” Rep. Terry said.
