If elected, I promise to…well, I’m not actually running for anything, but given that it is election season, I couldn’t resist. If you’re like me, you can’t turn on the TV to watch your favorite team (War Eagle!) or open a browser, without getting bombarded with election promises, campaign ads, and endless commentary. It’s exhausting.
Luckily, fiber broadband is both future-proof, and election-proof. When a community votes to deploy fiber, they’re voting for a foundation that supports a brighter future, better economic opportunities, and access to advanced services that can have a generational impact. Who wouldn’t vote for that future?
The fact is, not everyone will vote for fiber broadband. Some will vote for a technology option that is “good enough.” A technology that allows them to qualify for funding programs and meet today’s requirements but does little to provide a long-term path to the types of services and applications everyone knows are coming.
Fiber broadband enables a wide range of services that make homes safer and more energy efficient. It supports families in accessing remote work and learning opportunities and staying healthier through advanced telehealth options. Of course, it’s not all work and no play. Fiber is also essential for entertainment. As gaming and entertainment options continue to evolve to include virtual and augmented reality, only fiber broadband offers the capacity and low latency needed to make these immersive experiences possible.
Why wouldn’t someone vote to have fiber broadband deployed in their community? Many legislators, federal, state, and in local governments, claiming to be technology-neutral, end up supporting the status quo, leaving communities underserved.
As a resident, I don’t want just the minimum. I want technology that adds value to my home, supports my lifestyle, grows with my Smart Home needs, - not something that is “good enough” for today but limits my options tomorrow. While you won’t see fiber broadband on any ballot, remember that our state and local leaders are making choices about what will be deployed in your community—decisions that will impact your home, your family and your future. Make sure they know that “good enough” is not actually good enough.