The NPR Politics Podcast Mitch Landrieu, The Man Biden Hopes Can Rebuild America, Bring Broadband To Millions
Jul 4, 2023
Mitch Landrieu, former mayor of New Orleans, is at the forefront of implementing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act, a $1.2 trillion initiative aimed at revitalizing the nation's infrastructure. In this discussion, he emphasizes the Affordable Connectivity Program, providing vital internet subsidies to low-income families, positioning internet access as essential rather than a luxury. The conversation touches on the political stakes of expanding broadband access and its transformative potential for underserved communities, drawing parallels to historical milestones like the New Deal.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Affordable Internet Access
- Masal Mendez used to stay late at school to use the internet for homework.
- Now, with the Affordable Connectivity Program, his internet costs $20 instead of $50.
Infrastructure Act's Significance
- The Infrastructure Act is comparable to the New Deal or the Eisenhower Interstate System, according to Mitch Landrieu.
- It addresses crucial areas like internet access, clean energy, and transportation.
Internet Access: A Necessity
- Internet access is now viewed as a necessity, not a luxury, highlighted by the pandemic's impact.
- The lack of reliable internet access creates significant inequities.