Democrats and Republicans alike have both given cybersecurity scant attention in their respective party platforms, reflecting a shift from previous documents. The 2024 Democratic National Committee platform, approved by delegates on Monday, includes minimal mentions of cyber, mirroring the 2024 Republican platform in this aspect.
The 2024 Democratic platform features just two vague references to cybersecurity, failing to acknowledge that Kamala Harris is the party’s nominee for president. In contrast, the 2020 Democratic platform had five explicit mentions of cyber, indicating a departure in focus.
While privacy receives more attention in the 2024 Democratic platform, cybersecurity is relegated to a few remarks. The Biden administration’s efforts to safeguard consumer data and enhance privacy protections are highlighted, along with proposed legislation to address online safety for children.
On the other hand, the 2024 Republican platform dedicates only two sentences to cybersecurity, overlooking the issue of privacy entirely. The emphasis is placed on protecting critical infrastructure and industrial bases from cyber threats as a national priority.
Despite the limited references to cybersecurity in the party platforms, experts suggest that the Biden administration has demonstrated a commitment to addressing cyber threats and protecting critical infrastructure over the past four years. Both parties are expected to prioritize cybersecurity regardless of the platform mentions.
Overall, while cybersecurity may not be a prominent issue in party platforms, the focus on critical infrastructure and privacy reflects the ongoing efforts to mitigate cyber risks and enhance digital security measures. As the election approaches, cybersecurity remains a crucial area of concern for policymakers and the public alike.
