The Impact of the 2024 Presidential Election on U.S. Technology Policy

The upcoming 2024 presidential election is set to have a major impact on U.S. technology policy, with contrasting approaches from President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump. Both candidates are gearing up for the race, with their stances on key technology issues like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and semiconductor chips set to shape the future of tech regulation in the country.

Under the Biden administration, the focus has been on challenging China through boosting domestic chip manufacturing, imposing export controls, and addressing antitrust issues within U.S. tech companies. Additionally, there is an emphasis on developing AI security protocols and setting an example for federal authorities to follow in terms of AI use.

On the other hand, if Trump emerges victorious, the U.S. could see a shift towards less regulation of technologies like AI, potential easing of trade restrictions with China, and a relocation of critical supply chains to safeguard national interests.

Tom Wheeler, a visiting fellow at the Brookings Institution, and former chairman of the FCC, highlighted the urgency for the U.S. president to lead the next era of digital technology policy. He expressed concern that Europe could end up setting the rules for technology regulations if the U.S. fails to take the lead.

Climate technology policy is also expected to be a major area of contention between a Biden and a Trump administration. While Biden has been focused on clean energy initiatives, a second Trump administration could shift the focus to nuclear energy as a central part of the U.S. energy strategy.

The stance towards China is another point of contrast between the two candidates, with Trump likely to take a more suspicious view of China and its role in technology and national interests. The approach to AI regulation will also depend on the outcome of the House and Senate elections, as noted by Wheeler.

Overall, the 2024 election is poised to significantly impact U.S. technology policy, with potential shifts in regulation, trade relations, and industry focus depending on the outcome. Keep an eye out for updates on Trump and Biden’s approach to technology policy as the election approaches.