The US presidential election promises to open up
broadband access across the US following pledges by both candidates
to give every citizen online access.
Democratic nominee
Barack
Obama takes on his Republican counterpart
John McCain
in today's election. Obama, who is leading in the polls as the last
votes are counted, will become the first black president if
successful.
Obama
said he is setting a goal that every American has broadband
access "no matter where they live, no matter how much money they
have or do not have".
John McCain also wants to ensure all citizens are connected to
the internet.
But providing 100% access to fast internet to every household
will be difficult,technically and politically.
said Kurt Scherf, principle analyst at US technology research
firm Parks Associates.
"We are such a big country that trying to build the
infrastructure to do this, including using satellite and wireless,
is enormously expensive. Also, we have major issues such as the
credit crunch and in healthcare, and I do not think this will be a
priority."
According Parks Associates 57%, or 65 million US households,
have broadband access.This compares
with
65%, or 16.46 million, of UK households with broadband access.
Both US presidential candidates say they recognise the
importance of technology both socially and commercially. Both plan
to help businesses use and develop technology.
Obama said if elected his government would "harness technology
to confront the biggest challenges that America faces".
Obama said, if elected, the government would double the funding
for basic research and development tax credit. There would be
comprehensive immigration reform to attract skilled workers and
help for small technology firms compete.
Similarly, McCain, a former chairman of the Senate Committee on
Commerce, Science and Transportation, said he wanted to encourage
innovation, develop a skilled workforce and support fair trade.