The Internet is transforming the American economy. The Internet is transforming democracy. The Internet is even transforming American elections - especially the current one for the Presidency. Remarkably, as a 2012 Presidential campaign issue Internet tech garners very little debate time by pundits, politicos and the candidates themselves. Sadly this campaign season the editorial pages have devoted more ink to retrospectives on who built the Internet than to what should be done to keep it humming.
The Election 2012 debate must take seriously the absolutely critical role Internet technology plays in our economy, our democracy and our culture. One that recognizes that while other industry sectors remain sluggish the Internet technology sector is thriving, growing at rates nearly double that of healthcare, automobile manufacturing or farming, all of which receive a lot more serious attention during presidential campaigns. We should have one that recognizes that the Internet is the launching pad for our future as a nation. It is time.
Therefore we have invited representatives from Obama for America and Romney for President to present their stances on Internet technology on during this election season. Subject to scheduling we will host this event before election day. In addition, we will have a slate of Internet policy luminaries and experts to present their views on what the Executive should do to ensure the Internet continues to fulfill its potential including such issues as privacy protection, intellectual property, broadband ubiquity and even cyber war.
Regardless of whether the next inauguration will usher in a Romney 1.0 Administration or an Obama 2.0 Administration, we think the time to shine the campaign spotlight on Internet tech is long overdue.
A full agenda with speakers, topics and location will be announced as soon as we have a date. Please contact Tim Lordan for more information including sponsorship information at 202-638-4370 and tlordan@netcaucus.org. Follow us on Twitter @NetCaucusAC and use #NetDebate to join the conversation about this event.
This widely attended educational briefing is hosted by the Congressional Internet Caucus Advisory Committee (ICAC), part of a 501 (c)(3) charitable organization. Congressional staff and members of the press welcome. The ICAC is a private sector organization comprised of public interest groups, trade associations, non-profits, and corporations. More information on the ICAC is available at www.netcaucus.org.