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Cox Communications news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Charter completed its $34.5 billion acquisition of Cox Communications on Aug 20, 2026. The merger creates the largest U.S. cable operator serving 37 million customers.
Background
Charter Communications, already the No. 1 cable operator in the U.S., announced its acquisition of Cox Communications in May 2025. The deal received federal approval from the FCC in February 2026 and final state approval from California regulators in August 2026. The transaction also includes the acquisition of Liberty Broadband, and the combined company will operate under the Spectrum brand.
How it unfolded
- May 2025Charter announced its plan to acquire Cox Communications for $34.5 billion.
- Feb 2026The FCC approved the merger, with conditions including a $20 minimum wage for workers and onshoring jobs.
- Aug 13, 2026California regulators voted to approve the acquisition, clearing the final regulatory hurdle.
- Aug 20, 2026Charter completed the transaction, acquiring Cox and Liberty Broadband, creating a cable giant with 45-state footprint and 37 million customers.
Who’s saying what
- Company
- Charter CEO Chris Winfrey said the deal is 'one that can be celebrated by customers, employees and investors alike,' bringing best products at best price.
- Regulators
- California regulators approved after Cox agreed to workforce development programs and affordable broadband measures.