WASHINGTON, DC – The American Edge Project (AEP), a coalition of two dozen domestic organizations, today launched a new ad campaign underscoring the central role technology plays in driving U.S. economic growth and prosperity. 

Earlier this year, AEP released a new toolkit outlining the importance of supporting and strengthening American technological innovation and pursuing smart policy solutions that strengthen America’s ability to compete on the global stage.

“Technology is the backbone of the U.S. economy, enabling more than 90 percent of small businesses to grow and succeed.” said Doug Kelly, CEO of American Edge. “In order for America to maintain its competitive edge, we must continue to support innovation that allows employers to thrive, and families to affordably access the products and services they need daily. Politicians in Washington must remember an anti-innovation agenda will both hurt both growth and hit family pocketbooks; instead, America must lead to keep our economy going and protect our nation from those who seek harm to our citizens.”

Watch “Backbone” here.

SCRIPT: 

“From farming to manufacturing to retail, technology is the backbone of America’s economy.

“More than 90 percent of small businesses use a technology platform to run their business…

“…and our digital economy supports nearly eight million jobs.

“But some politicians in Washington are pushing anti-innovation policies that will undermine American tech innovators and destroy jobs.

“Who will lead the future?

“America or our adversaries?

“Congress needs to strengthen, not 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 Chairman Bradley A. Smith are directors of the American Edge Project. AEP’s National Security Advisory Board is comprised of Former White House Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Advisor Frances Townsend; retired four-star General Joseph F. Dunford Jr., United States Marine Corps (USMC), who served as former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff; and former Acting Director of the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), Michael J. Morell. Former U.S. Senators Saxby Chambliss (R-GA) and Kent Conrad (D-ND) serve as Co-Chairs of the Project’s Economic Advisory Board. Former U.S. Representative Greg Walden (R-OR) serves as Co-Chair of the Project’s Open & Accessible Internet Advisory Board. Visit AmericanEdgeProject.org for more information.

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