[crusso]

The problem is that broadband access is a veritable monopoly in most areas in the US. If this were an open market where lots of different providers could compete on price, then I'd agree with you.

Since you're usually locked into one or at best two broadband providers in a given area, it's too easy for them to manipulate the system.

Comcast already has a pretty solid history of abusing its monopoly over cable TV. The frustration I've had just using my "digital ready" TV with Comcast when they insist on renting you cable boxes that you shouldn't need has pretty much eaten through any free market sympathy that I might otherwise have had for them.