When the FCC voted to formalise net neutrality guidelines yesterday, it took minutes for the cable industry to bitch about plans to forbid them (and wireless carriers) from selectively blocking types of internet use. Surprise! McCain’s not a fan either.
He’s introduced the “Internet Freedom Act”, which would block the FCC’s rulemaking process. He says the rules would create “onerous federal regulation”, and constitute a “government takeover” that would stifle innovation.
“Today I’m pleased to introduce the Internet Freedom Act of 2009 that will keep the Internet free from government control and regulation,” McCain said. “It will allow for continued innovation that will in turn create more high-paying jobs for the millions of Americans who are out of work or seeking new employment. Keeping businesses free from oppressive regulations is the best stimulus for the current economy.”
I’m trying to keep politics out of this, but apparently his view of “Internet Freedom” refers to big business freedom, not American citizens. It’s strange, because I always thought that thriving competition was the best way to boost jobs and protect us consumers. Apparently not.
Lest we forget: Mac or PC? “Neither, I am an illiterate that has to rely on my wife for all of the assistance I can get.” His words, not mine. Even if you don’t agree with the FCC, is this really the right guy to oppose them? [Computerworld]
K3G
Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 11:00 AMCapatalism at it’s finest… This same kind of “free” mindset is what caused the global economic crisis and this is why I am so glad that Australia has really strict policies governing such large companies.
Anthony Lawrence
Saturday, October 24, 2009 at 11:58 PMWhen Republicans say “Freedom”, they mean “Freedom for Business to abuse you”
W L Greer
Sunday, October 25, 2009 at 1:51 AMThe height of hypocricy. A man with no knowledge of the internet using the word “Freedom” to take away the rights of every internet user in the United States.
I’m sure Mr McCain will be greatly rewarded by the big internet providers, including AT&T, who will pay millions for his help!
V. LoPresto
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 4:14 AMTypical republican strategy – propose something that is utterly disadventageous to the public and package it as “Freedom” or other such innocuous-sounding labels. Am I the only one getting sick of this crap? It’s designed to fool the people. If the republican party were a brand of car and made such claims (our car is “free” from the unnecessary constraint of brakes!) then they would be sued by consumer protection agencies for false advertising. In this case government regulation is much welcomed, keeping our freedom to surf the net without unwanted interference from commercial interests. We should all reject McCain’s version of freedom – freedom to be advertised to, to be steered to certain sites and blocked from others. That kind of freedom we don’t need!
Dani
Wednesday, October 28, 2009 at 10:41 AMThanks to bogus politicians like Mc-Pain and George Bush, I will be forever wary of any legislature that has the word “freedom” in it… its like they’re having “opposite day” up there on Capitol Hill!
Lori Chase
Friday, October 30, 2009 at 3:55 PMF-ing republicans. When, oh when, oh when, will the wool be pulled from people’s eyes and see republican politicans for what they are, narrow-minded, self-centered, old-idea, petrified, scarecrows walking around collecting money from big businesses. When, oh when? All the republicans and what they stand for is everything against from the values of truth, reality, and humanity that I know. I’m tired of it. I wish my voice were bigger. I think I will go into radio or television, or maybe I have to be a dog-eat-dog to get these compromised, bought-off fuckers to be real for once.
Lori Chase
Friday, October 30, 2009 at 4:02 PMnot violently, of course, I just wish that people could see Mr. McCain for the bought-off person that he is.
Lori Chase
Friday, October 30, 2009 at 4:15 PMI hope you read this Mr. McCain. We see right through you. We saw your silly attempt and ploy with Sarah Palin, a feeble attempt to win us over with a chick by your side. Unfortunately for you, she showed herself, quite readily, because really, she and you both, aren’t ready to be politicians. You’re just ready for money in your bank.
Lori Chase
Friday, October 30, 2009 at 4:22 PMRepublican = Hooker to big business.
Lori Chase
Friday, October 30, 2009 at 4:26 PMlol, and Republican = Mr. Rush Limbaugh’s subbie.
Lori Chase
Friday, October 30, 2009 at 4:37 PMJohn McCain is just somebody’s bitch. It’s too bad that you’re powerful on account of your gay ass smile. And I can say, “gay,” because I am Gay! Interestingly, my stygma is a little less weird than yours, I think. :)