The Vergecast

Sen. Ed Markey on the politics of technology

Jun 16, 2020
Senator Ed Markey from Massachusetts, a champion for technology policy and broadband access, joins the discussion. He dives into the urgent need for expanding broadband in rural areas, highlighting its crucial role during the pandemic. Markey addresses privacy concerns over contact tracing and contrasts U.S. broadband competition with European practices. The conversation wraps up with a look at the race for 5G technology, emphasizing the importance of cautious regulatory approaches to protect consumer interests.
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ANECDOTE

Basketball and the Senator

  • Sen. Markey's viral photo in his old Jordans reflects his lifelong love for basketball.
  • He even had a free-throw contest with a Boston Celtics player.
INSIGHT

Broadband Plan

  • Sen. Markey's 2009 broadband plan served as a blueprint for current broadband development.
  • His new bill addresses the pandemic's impact, aiming to bridge the digital divide.
ANECDOTE

FCC's Approach

  • Ajit Pai's FCC favored a "light touch" approach to broadband regulation.
  • This led to gaps in broadband access, highlighted by the pandemic.
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