Barack Obama is getting support for a lot of reasons, but his new set of proposals for integrating technology into government is another good reason for folks in this neck of the woods to pay attention to his candidacy.
VentureBeat has a rundown on Obama’s “technology platform”. Here’s a few takeaways:
- Obama wants to open more of the governmental process. For example, the public should able to comment on the White House website before legislation is signed.
- He calls more aggressive government support of broadband access.
- He supports network neutrality.
- He want to open the wireless spectrum so that winners of the 700 MHz band auction don’t just camp the spectrum in a bid to lock out competition.
Slightly less praiseworthy is his proposal to raise sanctions against companies offering “indecent” content. Fining networks $250,000 for dropping an f-bomb on TV is not going to make a more child-friendly society. Still, on balance, it’s a solid plan.
I like the fact that at least one of the myriad of people running for president are talking about integrating technology for all in the land. And, I love the idea of being able to comment prior to legislation is signed. If Obama becomes President and even that much happens, it would be a marked improvement on the closed system that exists today.
Great post!