Democratic strategists unveiled their technology safety platform on Monday through Project 2029, a policy initiative preparing for the 2028 presidential election. The proposal, titled "Kids Over Clicks," calls for a complete ban on social media for children under 16 and mandates stricter privacy protections for minors online.
The initiative represents Democrats' attempt to establish clear generational boundaries on tech access. The ban would apply broadly to social media platforms, preventing companies from allowing younger users to create accounts or access their services. Democrats argue the restriction protects children from addiction, mental health harms, and predatory behavior documented in recent years.
The proposal extends beyond age restrictions. It includes enhanced privacy safeguards requiring platforms to limit data collection from minors and restrict algorithmic content recommendations designed to maximize engagement. Democrats also advocate for parental transparency tools giving guardians visibility into children's online activity and stronger enforcement mechanisms against platforms that violate the rules.
Project 2029 released "Kids Over Clicks" as the first plank of their broader policy platform heading into the 2028 cycle. The timing reflects growing bipartisan concern about youth mental health and tech industry accountability, though Democrats and Republicans differ sharply on implementation details and the role of government regulation.
Republicans have also pushed for stricter social media rules for minors, with some states passing age verification laws. However, conservative proposals often emphasize parental choice and state-level action over federal bans. The Democratic approach centers federal regulation as the primary mechanism for protecting children.
Tech companies oppose the age ban, arguing it overreaches into parental decision-making and would eliminate legitimate platforms for youth civic engagement and creative expression. Industry groups contend that more targeted rules addressing specific harms prove more effective than blanket restrictions.
The proposal carries political weight ahead of 2028. It signals Democrats' willingness to regulate Big Tech, an issue resonating with voters across