U.S. Presidential Candidates' on Privacy, Surveillance, and AI

Navigating the 2024 U.S. presidential election is crucial for voters, including those abroad who may use a VPN for access. As candidates campaign on familiar issues, the digital era’s privacy landscape remains unclear. Explore leading candidates’ views on pivotal privacy aspects and the potential impact on Americans if elected.

Candidates in the 2024 Race

As of now, 10 candidates vie for the presidency, with President Biden and former President Trump in the spotlight. Noteworthy contenders include Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and Ryan Binkley. The election is set for November 5, 2024.

Digital Governance Matters

Digital governance, leveraging technology for public benefit, gains significance in safeguarding civil liberties. Key aspects to consider include privacy, mass surveillance, artificial intelligence (AI), digital inclusion, and cybersecurity.

Privacy and Mass Surveillance

Privacy, a fundamental right, clashes with mass surveillance, exemplified by the NSA’s powers. Biden’s support for the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) sparks debate, while Trump leans towards security, often prioritizing intelligence over privacy.

Artificial Intelligence

Biden proactively addresses AI, emphasizing safety and combating bias. In contrast, Trump actively advances AI initiatives but faces criticism for prioritizing security over privacy.

Digital Inclusion

Biden’s initiatives bridge the digital divide, whereas Trump focuses on rural broadband deployment. Candidates like DeSantis champion digital privacy, while Haley proposes social media user verification.

Cybersecurity

Both administrations focus on cybersecurity, with Biden emphasizing defense and Trump fortifying federal networks. DeSantis seeks a Digital Bill of Rights, while Trump addresses the broadband gap.

Where Other Hopefuls Stand

Understanding candidates’ NSA views provides insight into their approach to balancing national security and privacy.

Ron DeSantis (R)

DeSantis opposes NSA’s warrantless data collection, championing a Digital Bill of Rights and banning TikTok on state devices.

Nikki Haley (R)

Haley emphasizes national security in social media, proposing user verification. She opposes NSA metadata collection without a warrant.

Jill Stein (I)

Stein criticizes the NSA’s metadata program, advocating legal oversight. She aligns with whistleblower Edward Snowden.

Vivek Ramaswamy (R) – Dropped out

Ramaswamy supports whistleblower rights, intending to pardon Assange and Snowden, opposing government pressure on social media.

Chris Christie (R) – Dropped out

Christie supports robust NSA surveillance, advocating for metadata program restoration, and prioritizing national security.

Cenk Uygur (D) – Dropped out

Uygur questions the NSA’s integrity, expressing skepticism about the government handling personal data and advocating for privacy safeguards.

Staying informed on candidates’ digital governance views empowers voters to make informed choices in the evolving landscape of privacy, surveillance, and AI.

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FAQ: 2024 U.S. Presidential Elections

How is the U.S. president elected?

The major political parties, such as Democrats and Republicans, hold nominating conventions to select their candidates. These candidates, along with independents, appear on the final ballot.

The election utilizes the Electoral College system. On Election Day, voters cast their votes, contributing to a state tally. The candidate winning the majority in a state typically receives all of its electoral votes, except in Nebraska and Maine. Each state's electoral votes are based on its Senators and Representatives, with an additional three from Washington D.C., totaling 538 electors.

To secure the presidency, a candidate must win at least 270 electoral votes. If no one achieves a majority, the House of Representatives selects the president from the top three candidates, with each state delegation having one vote. This system combines direct popular vote and state-based electoral voting.

Who is running for president in the next election?

As of January 17, 2024, ten candidates vie for the 2024 United States presidential election. This includes four Republicans, three Democrats, and three Independents. Key figures from the 2020 election, President Joe Biden and former President Donald J. Trump are in the spotlight.

Among Democrats, President Biden faces challenges from Marianne Williamson and Dean Phillips. Notable Republicans in the race include Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and Ryan Binkley. The Democratic and Republican parties will each settle on one nominee. Independent candidates include Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Cornel West, and Jill Stein.

When are the next U.S. elections?

The next major U.S. elections are scheduled for Tuesday, November 5, 2024. These elections encompass the election of a president and vice president for a four-year term, all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, and 34 of the 100 seats in the U.S. Senate. Additionally, numerous state and local elections, including gubernatorial elections in 13 states and territorial governorships in 3 territories, will be held on the same day.

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