ABSTRACT
The Developers in Politics Survey Report captures a comprehensive look into the political sentiments, behaviors, and regulatory concerns among software developers in the United States, reflecting the increasingly intertwined relationship between the tech sector and political discourse. This study reveals their distinct views on party identification, voting behaviors, tech industry influence on politics, as well as their opinions on policies concerning AI, tech regulation, and data privacy. By leveraging our International Panel of Developers, we gathered insights into the unique intersection of tech professionals with the political landscape, especially as it pertains to emerging issues surrounding technology's role in governance and public opinion.
Developers and Politics
Insights into U.S. Software Developers' Political Sentiments and the Growing Intersection of Tech and Politics
Executive Summary
The developer community is highly aware of the political and social impact of technology. Recognizing both the opportunities and ethical challenges in tech, they advocate for balanced regulations that promote innovation while ensuring accountability, transparency, and public interest. From data privacy to AI, developers support policies to reduce bias and uphold responsibility. Their growing civic engagement and unique insights make them influential players in shaping tech advancements and the regulatory landscape, positioning them as vital voices at the intersection of technology and policy, working to guide a responsible, progressive tech industry aligned with democratic values. The following report, detailing findings from the Developers in Politics Survey, unpacks developers’ perceptions of the tech industry and technology as a political player, including the use of AI and deepfakes and content moderation policies.
U.S. developers are predominantly male and heavily situated within the professional tech workforce, a demographic consistent with North America's broader developer population. A significant portion identifies with the Democratic Party (42%), though a notable segment (27%) aligns with the Republican Party, while a substantial number classify themselves as independent or unaffiliated. The political engagement of this group is strong, with 56% indicating high interest in politics and 90% expressing intentions to vote in the upcoming presidential election. These findings underscore an engaged developer community with a vested interest in national policies, particularly those affecting the technology sector. High voter registration rates among respondents (97%) and the inclination to actively participate in the election suggest that the developer community could serve as an influential voting bloc, especially in tech-centric states like California, New York, and Washington.
Developers generally perceive the tech industry as exerting substantial influence over American politics, primarily through lobbying and shaping public opinion on digital platforms. Approximately 98% believe the tech sector impacts political processes, with nearly half stating this influence is extensive. This perception aligns with developers' overarching concerns regarding big tech's power and its potential to sway regulatory agendas to preserve competitive advantages. Furthermore, 81% of developers agree that big tech wields excessive political power, with the belief that it does not necessarily serve the public’s interests. Partisan differences emerge here; developers with…<Read More>