GeekPAC

Even though I much prefer to dwell on local politics, it would seem that now is a good time to think about the presidential primaries, especially since the Feb. 5 California primary is just around the corner. On the Democratic side, I’ll start with Barack Obama. In a speech at Google, Obama noted the value of open standards:

We have to use technology to open up our democracy. It’s no coincidence that one of the most secretive Administrations in history has favored special interests and pursued policies that could not stand up to sunlight. As President, I’ll change that. I’ll put government data online in universally accessible formats.

Before getting too carried way, note that he didn’t get very specific, and there is plenty of wiggle room around the term “universally accessible formats.” However, he scores points for at least using the right language. You can read his full IT plan here (PDF).

Noticeably absent from that document and, in fact, any of his speeches, is the mention of any sort of copyright reform or squashing the DMCA or even guaranteeing our rights to information. Given that the subject matter is quite politically charged, I would be shocked if he even addressed it at all before the election.

I’ll continue to follow Obama and report from other candidates as well.