#United States #Washington #Digital Divide #Connected Nation #AI Action Plan

Connected Nation Praises the National AI Action Plan

On July 24, 2025, Connected Nation (CN), a national nonprofit focused on bridging the Digital Divide, expressed strong support for the newly unveiled National AI Action Plan by the White House Office of Science and Technology. This initiative marks a pivotal moment for the trajectory of American innovation.

Tom Ferree, the Chairman and CEO of Connected Nation, remarked that this action plan is not merely a strategic document, but a declaration of the United States' intent to lead the global race in artificial intelligence. He stated, "This marks a transformational moment for American innovation. The National AI Action Plan signals to the world that the United States intends not only to compete—but to lead—in the global race for artificial intelligence."

The Action Plan released by the Trump administration is viewed as a comprehensive approach prioritizing essential areas such as accelerating innovation, increasing infrastructure investments, and ensuring that the capabilities of the U.S. in the AI sector remain unmatched. Ferree elaborated on the significance of this initiative, applauding its focus on expanding essential resources like data center capacity and fast-tracking permitting processes. He emphasized that these measures will significantly enhance the country's positioning in next-generation computing, which is vital for the future of various industries.

As the implementation of the AI Action Plan commences, Ferree called for an increased focus on the telecommunications infrastructure underpinning this technological leap. He noted that "robust middle-mile fiber, diverse long-haul routes, and regional Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) are essential elements that will ensure AI data centers operate at the necessary speed and scale. This is crucial not only for urban centers but also for rural communities, which must not be left behind in this digital evolution.”

The urgency conveyed by Connected Nation indicates a clear recognition of the transformative potential of artificial intelligence. The organization stands ready to collaborate with federal and state leaders to ensure the necessary broadband and interconnection backbone is in place to support the AI initiatives and keep America's technological advancements on the cutting edge.

Connected Nation was founded in 2001 and has dedicated itself to improving lives by enhancing access to broadband (high-speed internet) and its associated technologies for all individuals, regardless of their location or background. As they continue to champion digital equity, the organization’s mission becomes even more critical in the context of the rapidly evolving AI landscape.

This announcement of a national strategy for AI isn’t just about technology; it represents a commitment to innovation that can bridge gaps in society, foster economic growth, and ensure all citizens are equipped to participate fully in the digital era. As stakeholders in the technology and telecommunications sectors respond to this call for progress, the collective efforts will determine how effectively the U.S. can harness AI to create a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.