The Internet Works team recently hosted Middle Tech in Washington, D.C.! March 5th was Internet Works’ inaugural federal lobby day, and our member companies had a jam-packed schedule of meetings with lawmakers and administration officials to advocate for right-sizing federal tech policy.
We kicked off the day on Capitol Hill, where our member companies met with House and Senate member offices on both sides of the aisle, majority and minority committee staff on the frontlines of major tech issues, and leaders of the Main Street Caucus and the Problem Solvers Caucus.
Democratic and Republican offices alike were receptive to our focus on right-sizing tech policy for Middle Tech. We had thoughtful conversations about the importance of preserving Section 230 and policies that advance AI, data privacy, online trust and safety, and content moderation. Internet Works’ member companies weren’t just a voice for their issues though, they were advocates for the small businesses, communities, and families that use their platforms every day. In total, we sat down (or stood in hallways) with 27 of the congressional offices that will be writing the future of tech policies and learned a lot about how we can work together in the months ahead.
We closed out the day with the first-ever Internet Works “Middle Tech Mixer,” where member companies and congressional staff came together to mingle, enjoy tacos, and sip “Middle-TECHquila” margaritas. We were especially pleased to be joined by Representative Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), who shared remarks reiterating that tech regulations should be right-sized so as to not unintentionally stifle Middle Tech companies while working to address real concerns that exist on the Internet. His message resonated with our mission to advocate for policies that foster innovation, fair competition, and growth for millions of Americans who rely on Middle Tech platforms.
Early the next morning, we went right back to work, meeting with the White House Office of Public Liaison, where we discussed the administration’s priorities and again reiterated the importance of Section 230 and scaling tech policy so that Middle Tech companies can continue to thrive.
None of this would have been possible without the support and dedication of our member companies. Thank you to everyone who worked to make our lobby day a resounding success!