Our children will need to be able to use the Internet as informed, responsible citizens. Regardless of whether one regards the government as the problem or the solution, access to it and the information it generates is vital if a citizen is to fully participate in the democratic process. Government at all levels is moving toward doing business electronically. In cities around the country one can apply for a building permit or buy a dog license electronically. Mankato and Blue Earth County have Internet connections.
Gubernatorial candidates have e-mail addresses.
Recent Supreme Court decisions, presidential press releases, and federal legislation are all on the Internet. The Internet is politically neutral. The private news sector as well is increasingly communicating on-line. The Minneapolis Star-Tribune has announced that its electronic edition will offer over three times the depth of coverage of its print edition. Internet users find their most timely information in electronic journals.