The proposed merger of satellite radio operators Sirius and XM will now become a matter for the U.S. Congress, which you might think would have better things to do right around now that ponder whether Oprah and Martha Stewart can share the same airspace.
A new Congressional antitrust task force will conduct hearings on the matter next week, with Sirius big dog Mel Karmazin scheduled to testify Feb. 28.
"Digital music is at the cutting edge of technology and innovation," said House Judiciary Committee Chairman John Conyers . "We are holding this hearing to allow members to probe whether this merger will enhance or diminish competition in the digital music distribution industry."
That particular phrasing should hearten XM and Sirius, who need regulators to take a broad enough view of the industry that iPods, Rhapsody and Wild 105.3 FM are all considered competition for satellite radio.
Meanwhile, on the off chance this thing actual survives the regulatory process, the combined service is going to need a new name. Suggestions, esteemed readers?
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