Former President Barack Obama is set to make a return to the spotlight at the Democratic National Convention, addressing a party that has undergone significant changes in its relationship with technology since his departure from office.
Once hailed as the internet president for his innovative use of social media and online platforms during his campaigns, Obama’s ties to the digital realm have evolved alongside the rapid advancements in technology. His initial embrace of Big Tech is now viewed through a more critical lens by many within the Democratic Party, who see social media companies as potential threats to democracy and mental health.
The shift in the party’s stance on tech is evident as President Joe Biden’s administration takes a more pessimistic approach to Big Tech, focusing on concerns around safety, discrimination, and antitrust issues. However, as Vice President Kamala Harris assumes a more prominent role within the party, there are indications of a potential pivot back towards a more balanced view of technology.
With new technological frontiers like artificial intelligence, space exploration, and quantum computing on the horizon, Democrats are faced with a new set of challenges and opportunities in shaping their tech policy. Obama’s speech at the convention serves as a reminder of a time when Democrats were seen as the party of progress and innovation, offering a contrast to the policies of former President Donald Trump.
As the party navigates its evolving relationship with Silicon Valley and the tech industry, Harris’s connections to the Bay Area and her more nuanced approach towards tech regulation could signal a shift in the party’s tech policy. While a return to the techno-optimism of the Obama era may be unlikely, Democrats are presented with an opportunity to reevaluate their stance on technology and its role in shaping the future of the country.
