Barack Obama led the most tech savvy presidential campaign in American history, using the Internet to recruit, mobilize, and engage more than 13 million supporters. As president, Obama has pledged to “integrate technology into every aspect of government,” and usher in “a new level of transparency, accountability and participation for America’s citizens.” The use of technology to increase government openness and accountability enjoys widespread support, but presents numerous hidden pitfalls. If improperly implemented, Obama’s plans could actually decrease transparency, invade citizens’ privacy, increase the potential for corruption, and stunt technological innovation.

Read PDF