Presidential candidates vow more attention to tech issues

[Commentary] No matter who wins the White House, Silicon Valley is looking forward to a president who understands the value of technology and innovation — far better, some would say, than at any time in recent years. In a series of interviews, industry representatives said Sen Barack Obama (D-IL) has shown more fluency in the uses of technology and the power of the Internet, while Sen John McCain (R-AZ) seems more "business-friendly" on traditional concerns such as taxes and trade. Privately, several said they're convinced either candidate would give Silicon Valley a higher profile — through policy initiatives and prominent appointments — than the Bush White House, which they say has been focused on other concerns.