Rather than commenting on any specific proposal, let me speak generally. On the issue of Internet regulation, I think less is better. I believe the First Amendment applies in cyberspace, just as it does in the rest of America. At the same time, I also believe in the fundamental right of privacy. Some of the reports we've seen already about things like identity theft, and misuse of personal financial and medical information on the Internet, are deeply troubling.
Balance is also critical when it comes to Internet taxation.
I think we need to be extremely careful. On the one hand, information technology clearly is the engine that's driving our economy, and we shouldn't do anything to jeopardize its growth unnecessarily. On the other hand, in small towns all across South Dakota, Main Street is dotted with family-run businesses that are barely hanging on as it is. They can't afford one more competitive disadvantage. And there are people like them in every small town in America.