WASHINGTON, DC — The American Edge Project, a coalition of two dozen domestic organizations, spotlighting the critical role American technology plays in supporting and safeguarding our national and economic security, released the spot, titled “John,” which features an U.S. Army veteran who urges our leaders to focus on policies that strengthen American technology.

“American technology is a critical foundation of our nation’s economic prosperity and national security,” said Doug Kelly, CEO of American Edge. “Our adversaries – China and Russia in particular – are working hard to supplant America’s technological edge and weaponize the technologies of tomorrow to surveil, censor, and undermine freedom around the globe. We can’t allow that to happen. That is why lawmakers must work diligently to strengthen, not undercut, American technology.”

Watch “John” here.

SCRIPT:

“I served in the Army for 11 years, and deployed overseas three times.   

“I understand the price of freedom…

…and I’m aware of the threats we face from our foreign adversaries.

“Countries like China, Russia and Iran believe in oppression and censorship…

…and they want to dominate and use tomorrow’s technologies against America.

“If you value free expression and an open Internet, join me in sending a message to Congress.

“It’s time 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) and Former U.S. Representative Loretta Sanchez (D-CA) serve as Co-Chairs of the Project’s Open & Accessible Internet Advisory Board.

Visit AmericanEdgeProject.org for more information.

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