2024 Presidential Election: Where Candidates Stand on Tech and Innovation

Election day is tomorrow. Here is our endorsement.

As the 2024 U.S. presidential election approaches, technology and innovation are increasingly crucial issues for voters, even if they aren't primary motivators for turnout. Growing concerns over Big Tech's influence, AI’s societal role, and data privacy have prompted Americans to seek candidates with clear, actionable policies.

Visions for Tech: Differing Party Approaches

Democratic Stance: Democrats have consistently highlighted the ethical development of technology, prioritizing data privacy protections, misinformation regulation, and accountability for tech giants. Under the Biden administration, six guiding principles were introduced to limit monopolistic practices, strengthen privacy laws, and improve online safety for children. Vice President Kamala Harris advocates for equitable access to technology, particularly in underserved communities, focusing on net neutrality and data protection. Harris’ platform continues support for the CHIPS and Science Act, aimed at strengthening U.S. manufacturing in semiconductor production and green tech.

Republican Stance: Republicans lean towards a free-market approach with minimal government oversight, favoring private enterprise as the primary driver of tech growth. Former President Donald Trump has been vocal about “illegal censorship” on platforms like X (formerly Twitter), underscoring free speech as a central issue. Meanwhile, other GOP candidates emphasize tech advances in cybersecurity and space exploration, arguing that reduced regulation fosters economic growth and national security. Vivek Ramaswamy, for instance, has proposed cutting the federal workforce, aiming for a streamlined, efficient tech industry.

Artificial Intelligence: Seeking Responsible Innovation

Both parties recognize AI’s transformative potential but differ in their approach to its governance. Democrats are focused on ethical development, with Biden’s 2023 executive order mandating that AI developers report safety outcomes to the government. Harris has called for oversight in AI applications, particularly in healthcare and finance, to prevent misuse and bias.

Republicans agree that AI holds strategic importance, particularly against global competitors like China, but favor a less restrictive regulatory approach. Republican leaders argue that AI requires time for self-regulation, with companies assuming responsibility for ethical AI use. Former Governor Chris Christie opposes strict regulation, suggesting AI can enhance human labor through thoughtful investment rather than limitation.

Emerging Technologies

Both parties acknowledge the importance of emerging tech, including quantum computing and cybersecurity, for national security. Democrats favor federal investment to protect critical infrastructure and combat digital threats, and Harris has advocated for international partnerships on cybersecurity, joining initiatives like the Paris Call for Trust and Security in Cyberspace. Biden’s administration has championed public-private partnerships to strengthen national defenses.

Republicans, however, argue that private-sector innovation is essential, with Trump proposing fewer restrictions on tech companies to foster market-driven solutions. GOP candidates believe that a flexible regulatory environment enables U.S. firms to remain globally competitive, prioritizing free-market solutions to enhance cybersecurity.

Cybersecurity and Small Business Impact

Cybersecurity policy is divided between enhancing federal oversight and supporting small businesses with limited resources. While some lawmakers call for strengthened cybersecurity measures, others warn that rigid policies could burden small businesses. Harris, for example, has promoted international collaboration in cybersecurity, while Trump’s 2017 executive order emphasized transparency in cybersecurity risk, providing customers, investors, and regulators with insights into a company’s security practices.

Cryptocurrency and Digital Assets

Cryptocurrency regulation is another area of divergence. Harris sees digital assets as vital to the modern economy, advocating for consumer protection and transparency in crypto markets. Trump has adopted a more cautious stance, previously referring to Bitcoin as a “scam” but more recently acknowledging the sector's growth. In 2024, Trump has expressed support for a stable crypto market without extensive government oversight.

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A Vision for Innovation and Patent Protection

The outcome of the 2024 election will profoundly impact the tech sector and America’s global standing. A Democratic administration would likely pursue stronger data protections and antitrust actions against tech monopolies. In contrast, a Republican administration would focus on reducing restrictions, enabling growth through private enterprise, and safeguarding free speech online.

Supporting innovation requires robust patent systems to protect intellectual property and deter tech theft. Both parties should prioritize strengthening the patent system, not only to foster innovation but also to establish America’s leadership in the global tech landscape. While campaign promises often fall short, strengthening patent protections would benefit U.S. innovation long-term.