How Democrats & the tech industry are approaching Trump differently
Dec 17, 2024
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Democrats are shifting their approach, moving from resistance to calm collaboration as they prepare for the Biden administration. They’re focused on bipartisanship while addressing state challenges, like wildfire policy, amid a Republican-majority Congress. Meanwhile, the tech industry is making headlines with SoftBank's jaw-dropping $100 billion investment pledge to court the Trump administration, raising questions about the future of regulation and Elon Musk’s influence within this evolving relationship.
Democrats in California are shifting towards a calm and strategic approach, focusing on cooperation over confrontation with the Trump administration.
The tech industry is actively courting Trump through substantial investments and donations, signaling a desire to mitigate regulatory scrutiny and foster economic relationships.
Deep dives
California's Strategic Approach to Trump's Second Term
Democrats in California are adopting a calm and strategic approach as Donald Trump begins his second term, signaling a shift from the resistance they promoted during his first election. Senator Adam Schiff, a prominent figure in the impeachment trials, emphasizes that his priority will be addressing issues that matter to Californians rather than focusing on confrontation with the Trump administration. Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren and other lawmakers propose a more bipartisan stance, acknowledging that cooperation may be necessary to pass effective legislation due to the presence of far-right Republicans who may resist collaboration. This effort indicates a readiness to engage on issues like disaster aid while remaining vigilant and prepared to take legal action if Trump's governance goes awry.
Tech Industry's Shift in Relations with the Trump Administration
In the face of Trump's second presidential term, major tech executives are actively forming relationships with the incoming administration through substantial financial commitments. SoftBank's Masayoshi Son announced a $100 billion investment in the U.S. tech sector, showcasing confidence in Trump's economic policies, despite skepticism regarding the availability of such funds. Notably, tech giants including Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos, and Sam Altman have significantly pledged donations to Trump's inaugural fund, a marked increase in public visibility compared to past donations. This apparent shift might be driven by the need for tech companies to regain favor with Trump and mitigate regulatory scrutiny, which could ultimately impact profitability.
Navigating the Political Landscape in Trump's Administration
Democrats are preparing to navigate the complex political landscape of Trump's administration with a mix of readiness to challenge and opportunities for collaboration. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries indicates a commitment to preserving key rights, such as health care and social security, while also seeking bipartisan initiatives. Conversations between Schiff and Republican Senator Tim Sheehy aim to address wildfire policy, highlighting potential areas for cooperation. Meanwhile, California's Governor Gavin Newsom has preemptively set up legal strategies to defend against any unlawful actions by Trump, demonstrating the dual strategy of being ready for confrontation while also seeking common ground.
The first time Donald Trump was elected president, blue state Democrats asserted themselves as the frontline of the resistance. Now, they say they're making an intentional decision to stay calm.
Then, the tech industry is courting President-elect Donald Trump. SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son pledged a $100 billion investment in the U.S. over the next four years at an event at Mar-a-Lago.
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