(Washington) - In response to the change in power in Congress and amid some speculation that it may result in a renewed push for Internet regulation, the Hands Off the Internet coalition released the following statement:

“Today’s change in the makeup of Congress should change nothing in the debate over regulating the Internet through so-called net neutrality mandates. While many have tried to turn this debate into a partisan one, the reality is important voices across the political spectrum have concluded that regulation of the Internet is unnecessary and would result in a whole host of unintended consequences. Editorial pages on the right and left, labor unions like the Communications Workers of America, hi-tech manufacturers, academics and technology leaders on both sides of the political aisle and former officials from both Democrat and Republican administrations have all urged Congress to avoid the heavy handed regulation of net neutrality.”

“In the 1990’s, Democrats and Republicans worked together to ensure regulatory restraint over the Internet. This restraint laid the foundation for the unprecedented creation of jobs, opportunity and wealth since the early 1990s. We are optimistic that the new Congress will continue this legacy as we move towards a new wave of Internet innovation that creates jobs, brings greater benefits to consumers and results in greater broadband access for millions of Americans.”