Telecommunications
Ever since America won the space race, we have led the world with unprecedented technological advances. Innovative technology and telecommunications, especially the advent of the internet, opened up America to a wide array of global markets and new avenues of success.
Unfortunately, the talent, intellect, and entrepreneurial spirit of the American people that made this nation great are being seriously challenged. America is falling behind in both the race to invent new technologies and the ability to apply the technology already in existence.
I believe it is essential that America once again lead the world in innovative technology. Americans must continue to innovate in order to create new thriving industries that will produce millions of good jobs here at home and a better future for the next generation. The first step to this goal is ensuring that every community has access to the technology of the 21st Century, especially digital television and high-speed internet.
On June 12, 2009, American television stations will end all analog broadcasts and begin broadcasting exclusively in a digital format. The switch to digital television (DTV) is more efficient and flexible than the traditional analog broadcast, and offers every American family access to improved television pictures and sound.
I also have high hopes that we will close the digital divide and provide high-speed broadband access nationwide, even to our rural communities. High-speed internet access promotes education and integrated learning in classrooms, facilitates independent living for residents who are ill or disabled, and encourages civic participation and must be available to all citizens regardless of where they live.
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