Rep. Greg Walden (R-Ore.), a former small businessman and radio station owner, has been named the next chairman of the House Subcommittee on Communications, Technology and the Internet, the panel that oversees the cable, broadcasting and satellite TV industries as well as the Federal Communications Commission.

"ACA welcomes the announcement by incoming House Energy & Commerce Committee Chairman Upton that Rep. Greg Walden will lead the Subcommittee on Communications, Internet and Technology. Congressman Walden is someone who understands the concerns of small businesses and small cable operators as a former small businessman himself," said American Cable Association President and CEO Matthew M. Polka. "His background and experience will be key as the Subcommittee considers how Congress will promote the interests of consumers while balancing the regulatory impact on small businesses that will deliver important broadband, phone and video services."

Walden used Twitter to announce his appointment, doing so via Morse code. "Just the ham radio operator in me having fun," Walden explained.

Walden will be joined by vice chairman Terry Lee (R-Neb.) in running the subcommittee. Walden represents the Oregon's 2nd Congressional district, which includes twenty counties in central, southern and eastern Oregon.