New FCC boss Julius Genachowski has so far been allowed to skirt confrontation by riding the middle ground, his public discussions on broadband (including at his confirmation) not really choosing sides on a slew of controversial topics ranging from government-subsidized broadband to the need for network neutrality legislation. Other than vague support for select issues, Genachowski's true feelings on the issues remain murky at best.

Such fence-straddling is going to be increasingly difficult as the agency works to craft a new national broadband strategy that actually works. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Genachowski continues his role as the consummate politician -- talking a lot about broadband without really saying anything. For example, here's his answer on whether he'll regulate carriers:When asked about how he hopes to achieve universal broadband penetration:You'll probably notice by this point that he's not actually answering any of the questions. It's not just the Wall Street Journal, either. In an interview with the Washington Post, Genachowski "offered few specifics" on regulatory structure, and "did not weigh in on some of the most vexing issues confronting the FCC." Other than chirpy rhetoric on competition and innovation (of which there's been no shortage the last decade), so far the telecom sector isn't getting specific answers on how Genachowski plans to fix things.

Sure, it makes sense for the FCC to wait on more accurate data (not the FCC's forte in recent years) -- and yes, Genachowski has only just been appointed. Still, it's annoying to see the new boss isn't willing to take even the most rudimentary of stands on any key broadband policy issue. It doesn't instill faith in the reform of the FCC from an agency of rhetoric-fueled lawyers and lobbyists who make decisions based on partisan or corporation loyalty --to an agency of technologists who make decisions based on, well, technology, facts and science.

On the positive side, Genachowski at least seems willing to admit there are competitive and penetration issues that need fixing, something that has been difficult in recent years for the well-lobbied FCC.