A Tech Power Playbook for Donald Trump 2.0

In coming years, the pace of technological innovation and deployment will only quicken. The new administration will need a systematic and sustained approach. On January 20, Donald J. Trump entered office as our nation’s forty-seventh chief executive. With his…
Lolita Steuber · 9 days ago · 3 minutes read


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Winning the Tech Power Game: A Playbook for the Trump Administration

The Stakes: Technology, Security, and Global Power

The rapid advancement of technologies like AI, biotech, quantum computing, and drones is reshaping the global landscape. This presents both challenges and opportunities for the Trump administration. A renewed focus on economic security, coupled with strategic technological advancements, offers a path to peace, freedom, and prosperity.

Building the Team: Early Moves and Strategic Appointments

The Trump administration has recognized the importance of technology by appointing key figures like JD Vance, with his Silicon Valley connections, and a dedicated AI and Crypto Czar. These appointments demonstrate a commitment to developing a winning tech power strategy.

A Strong Offense: Unleashing American Innovation and Manufacturing

A key element of any successful tech strategy is a strong domestic manufacturing base. The CHIPS Act has incentivized substantial investments in American semiconductor production, revitalizing regions like the Midwest and strengthening the defense industrial base. The SK Hynix investment in Indiana serves as a prime example of this success.

Beyond semiconductors, sustained investment in R&D across critical emerging technologies is crucial. The "Science" portion of the CHIPS and Science Act needs full funding to ensure America remains at the forefront of innovation and avoids falling behind competitors like China.

Strong Defense: Safeguarding Technological Advantages

Alongside promoting domestic innovation, a robust defense against the proliferation of sensitive technologies is essential. Recent measures to control the flow of advanced chips and manufacturing equipment to adversaries, particularly China, must be maintained and expanded. Transparency and collaboration with allies are key to the effectiveness of these controls.

Special Teams: The Rise of Tech Diplomacy

The CHIPS Act established the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund, empowering the State Department to engage in technology diplomacy. This initiative has fostered partnerships, strengthened supply chains, and promoted American technology standards globally.

The ITSI program has already yielded impressive results, fostering collaboration with nations in Southeast Asia and Central America, and solidifying America's role as a trusted partner in technology development.

The Game Plan: A Multi-Pronged Approach to Tech Leadership

Building on the success of the CHIPS Act, a comprehensive tech power playbook should include:

  1. Fully funding the "Science" portion of the CHIPS Act.
  2. Expanding tech diplomacy efforts to other emerging technologies.
  3. Prioritizing technology training within the diplomatic corps.
  4. Making digital trade a cornerstone of future trade agreements.
  5. Addressing non-tariff barriers to U.S. digital trade.
  6. Leveraging capital markets to support tech development in allied nations.
  7. Reauthorizing and expanding the ITSI program.
  8. Promoting responsible AI development with international partners.
  9. Establishing and upholding liberal, democratic standards for technology use.

"We win, they lose." - Ronald Reagan

This multi-pronged approach is crucial for ensuring American leadership in the face of techno-authoritarian competition. By fostering innovation, strengthening alliances, and promoting democratic values, America can secure its future in the technological age.

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