Why Rural America’s Digital Divide Persists

A Q&A with New York Times technology reporter Cecilia Kang. 

Kang said, "With schools closed and more people working from home, Democrats and Republicans both generally agree now with the principle of getting fast internet to every American. They disagree on how. It’s the classic big government versus small government debate. Democrats say more government funding to bring internet service to people [who cannot get fast internet service at home -- because government maps say the area already has access] can create the kind of jobs the economy will need. Republicans are backing a new mobile internet technology to replace home internet lines and solve access gaps. There were similar arguments about electricity and phone service in the early 1900s. Then, the federal government decided those services were essential, and it brought electric and telephone poles to every home, no matter the cost."

When asked what has changed since Kang wrote about gaps in internet access in 2016, she said, "The digital divide during the pandemic is changing the minds of those who didn’t think this was a real problem. I think the stories of students being left behind because they can’t connect to virtual classes will be heartbreaking and propel the internet companies and Washington to act. Here’s hoping..."