....Instead of blindly kowtowing to the anti-competitive demands of Hollywood, the Democrats could make real political gains by encouraging innovative compromises that recognize the crucial role that content can play in promoting broadband. One idea that merits further study is the Intellectual Property User Fee (IPUF), a small surcharge on ISP accounts akin to the taxes on telephone bills that support universal phone service. This money could then be used to compensate Hollywood for its "generosity" in letting flourish the file-sharing services that will drive broadband's growth--growth that, in turn, will eventually provide a new market for Hollywood's content. Economically, it's a win-win situation.

....The last time the Democrats triumphed, it was all about the economy, stupid. That message could still work in 2004, but only if the party wises up to Hollywood's self-serving role in curbing broadband and, in turn, stifling greater economic prosperity for those living outside the 90210 zip code. Hollywood, in its attempts to outlaw digital technology, has been compared to a dinosaur shaking its claw at the approaching comet. Note to the Democrats: The dinosaurs got creamed.