Admiral James G. Stavridis and Frances Townsend Bring Decades of Expertise to the Debate
WASHINGTON, DC – The American Edge Project, a coalition of more than a dozen domestic organizations, today announced the creation of its National Security Advisory Board. As it works to promote America’s technological advantage amid threats from foreign interests, the Project is proud to partner with two leading national security experts. Joining the board is Admiral James G. Stavridis, USN (Ret.), who served as the 16th Supreme Allied Commander at NATO and Dean at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University, as well as former White House Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Advisor Frances Townsend. In their role, Admiral Stavridis and Ms. Townsend will provide key counsel to the Project’s directors, and spread the message about the severity and scope of the threat posed by foreign-owned and state-run enterprises. “
As foreign entities – particularly nation-state actors – seek to steal American intellectual property, move into global markets with platforms that misuse user data, and undermine an open internet, lawmakers must respond with resolve to protect our country’s technological edge rather than with regulations that disadvantage it,” said Admiral James G. Stavridis. “The American Edge Project recognizes the critical role that American innovation plays, and I am pleased to join its effort to help safeguard our national security.”
“The prospect of forfeiting America’s technological edge to countries with diametrically different values poses a deeply dangerous threat to our global interests,” added former White House Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Advisor Frances Townsend. “Particularly as experts sound the alarm about how foreign actors are attempting to interfere in our institutions, the need to protect this edge is more than an important priority – it is an imperative for America’s national security interests. I applaud the mission of the American Edge Project and look forward to joining its National Security Advisory Board to help defend a technological advantage that is very clearly in jeopardy.”
Background: The American Edge Project is a coalition of domestic organizations representing a crosssection 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 Chairman Bradley A. Smith are directors of the American Edge Project. Visit AmericanEdgeProject.org for more information.
###