Americans' information independence is under attack, whether it's the repeal of net neutrality or the repeal of broadband privacy protections.

In this quote, Jared Polis highlights the growing threat to Americans' information independence. He is referring to the challenges faced by individuals in maintaining control over their personal data and access to information. Polis points to specific actions, such as the repeal of net neutrality and the repeal of broadband privacy protections, as examples of how policies can undermine individuals' rights to unrestricted access to the internet and protect their privacy online.

Net neutrality is the principle that internet service providers (ISPs) should treat all data on the internet equally, without discriminating against or charging differently by user, content, website, or platform. The repeal of net neutrality regulations allows ISPs to prioritize certain content or services over others, potentially limiting information access for consumers. This can lead to a scenario where the internet is no longer a neutral platform for the free exchange of ideas, but rather one where access is controlled by commercial interests.

The repeal of broadband privacy protections refers to the decision to remove rules that restricted ISPs from collecting and selling users' private information without consent. This action, according to Polis, further erodes the privacy and independence of Americans in the digital age, allowing corporations to have more control over individuals' personal data. These actions, Polis argues, diminish the ability of individuals to control how their personal information is used and distributed.

Ultimately, Polis's quote serves as a warning about the erosion of digital rights and the potential consequences of policy changes that restrict access to information and undermine privacy protections. He emphasizes the importance of safeguarding information independence in order to ensure that all Americans can freely navigate the internet without fear of exploitation or restricted access.