WASHINGTON, DC — The American Edge Project, a coalition of two dozen domestic organizations, today launched a new ad campaign spotlighting the national security threat our country faces if we surrender our technological edge to China. As “Threats” makes clear, overreaching policies supported by some Washington politicians would strengthen foreign adversaries, undercut our country’s most innovative companies and cause America to fall behind. The advertising will run online and on cable television in targeted markets.

“China is boosting its tech capabilities and stealing ours in an attempt to become the world’s dominant superpower by 2035,” said Doug Kelly, CEO of American Edge. “Rather than passing legislation that handcuffs America’s most innovative technology companies, Washington lawmakers should focus on bolstering our domestic innovation and slowing China’s theft of American technology. There’s too much at stake to get this wrong.”

Watch “Threats” here.

SCRIPT:

“With direct financial ties to the Chinese Communist Party, many Chinese companies present threats to America’s national security.

But some Washington politicians are pushing for new laws that will empower Chinese companies at the expense of America’s tech innovators.

These laws will take away America’s competitive edge, weaken our national security, and increase the risks of new cyber-attacks.

Who will build the future? China or America?

Our leaders must protect our competitive edge.”

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. Former White House Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Advisor Frances Townsend leads the Project’s National Security Advisory Board. 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. Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-ND) and former U.S. Representative Greg Walden (R-OR) serve as Co-Chairs of the Project’s Open & Accessible Internet Advisory Board. Visit AmericanEdgeProject.org for more information.

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