The initial of three presidential debates in preparation for the 2024 United States election was held in Atlanta on June 27. For the first time since 1960, this presidential debate was televised without a live audience in attendance. However, the absence of the crowd was not the only notable aspect of the event.
While the debate covered a broad array of subjects including immigration, voter perceptions, and the economy, it notably did not mention two key terms: “artificial intelligence” and “quantum computing.”
In the context of 2024, this omission is significant. Artificial intelligence (AI) has had a substantial impact on the U.S. stock market, economy, and technology industry in recent years. The next U.S. president may be the first to confront “Q-Day,” the hypothetical point at which quantum computers are powerful enough to break standard encryption methods.
In the realm of artificial intelligence, U.S.-based technology and investment firms specializing in AI have become dominant players in the global market. Recently, Bank of America released a study projecting that AI would contribute over $13 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with the U.S. poised to benefit the most.
Given these developments, it is surprising that the debate organizers and moderators chose not to address these crucial topics. Neither candidate brought up AI during the debate, with President Joe Biden even stating that climate change is the sole existential threat facing America.
While climate change is undeniably a pressing concern, many experts in the field of AI also consider the potential dangers of artificial general intelligence to be equally significant.
Another notable absence from the debate was any discussion of quantum computing. While AI has dominated tech news headlines, scientists believe that quantum computers are on the cusp of transforming industries such as banking, finance, logistics, and scientific research.
The potential risks associated with quantum computing, such as encryption breaches and data theft, were not addressed during the debate. Additionally, topics like cryptocurrency, blockchain, election security, deepfakes, and social media were also conspicuous by their absence.
It remains unclear whether the omission of tech-related topics was intentional on the part of the debate organizers. The only tech-related issue that surfaced was the need for machines capable of detecting fentanyl at the U.S. southern border, an idea that both candidates agreed upon.
Looking ahead, it is possible that the upcoming debates may delve into more topics related to technology and fintech, providing a platform for discussions and questions on these critical issues.