WASHINGTON, DC – The American Edge Project, a coalition of two dozen domestic organizations, today launched a new ad campaign featuring two small business owners describing the vital role American tech companies play in the success of our main street economy. The first ad “Larry” features Larry Melton who owns and operates AZ Water Systems with his wife. Larry explains how his small business relies on online advertising to reach new customers, and digital tools and platforms to make his business more efficient. In the second spot, titled “Renee,” Mississippi small business owner Renee Carlton highlights personal testimony before cautioning Washington about enacting misguided laws that will weaken American technology.
“American technology underpins our nation’s economic prosperity. Like tens of millions of entrepreneurs and small business owners, Larry and Renee rely on the products and tools created by our tech companies to run their businesses efficiently and effectively,” said Doug Kelly, CEO of American Edge. “Our adversaries – China and Russia in particular – are working hard to supplant America’s technological leadership and overtake us as the global leader in technological innovation. Now more than ever, it’s vital for leaders to strengthen our domestic tech industry, not undercut it. America’s economic security and prosperity is on the line.”
Watch “Larry” here.
Watch “Renee” here.
SCRIPTS:
Larry
“At my plumbing business, online technology is central to everything we do.
“We use social media and online advertising to reach new customers…
…and we rely on digital tools and platforms to make our business more efficient.
“I don’t understand why some in Congress want to take away the technology we use every day.
“This political campaign against American technology will hurt small businesses like mine who need it.
“Our leaders need to strengthen, not weaken, American technology.”
Renee
“Technology touches every corner of our economy.
“When things shut down and folks turned to the Internet, American technology was my small businesses’ lifeline, keeping me connected to my clients.
“But some politicians are pushing new laws that will weaken American technology.
“Their misguided agenda will make small businesses dependent on China for the technology we use every day.
“I have a message for Congress.
“Don’t weaken American technology.”
BACKGROUND:
The American Edge Project is a coalition of domestic organizations representing a cross-section of U.S. innovators who are dedicated to telling the story about technology’s positive influence on America’s economy and the vital role innovation plays in our society. Former New Mexico Governor Susana Martinez, former U.S. Representative Chris Carney, and former Federal Election Commission (FEC) Chairman Bradley A. Smith are directors of the American Edge Project.