http://blog.icann.org/2010/12/us-government-opposes-launch-of-new-gtld-progr... US DoC letter : http://forum.icann.org/lists/5gtld-guide/pdf4SSmb5oOd5.pdf US Government Opposes Launch of New gTLD Program in Cartagena by Rod Beckstrom We appreciate the many comments received so far on the draft Applicant Guidebook in its five full versions. We thank the community and all who contributed for their engagement, thoughts and opinions during the course of this process. One of the most recent comments we have received is a letter today from the US Department of Commerce (DoC). ICANN’s success and legitimacy derive from the multistakeholder model, the basis on which new gTLD policy was developed. The policy process decision to undertake this program was approved by the GNSO Council in 2007 and adopted by ICANN’s board of directors in 2008. In the Affirmation of Commitments, the US government and ICANN reconfirmed our mutual commitment to the multistakeholder model. ICANN confirmed our commitment to solicit public comment and to hear all voices. As with all contributions, ICANN will give DoC’s comments careful consideration as part of the implementation of the GNSO policy. ------------