Would Kamala Harris offer Silicon Valley a do-over with Democrats?
Jul 23, 2024
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Adam Kovacevich, Founder and CEO of Chamber of Progress, discusses why Silicon Valley should support Kamala Harris for president, her moderate approach to tech issues, and the evolving relationship between Democrats and the tech industry post-Obama era.
Kamala Harris offers tech industry a reset with Democrats for more open dialogue and industry input.
Concerns exist over Harris's potential lack of focus on areas like crypto and AI regulation.
Deep dives
Adam Kvokovic's Case for Backing Kamala Harris in Tech Industry
Adam Kvokovic argues that Kamala Harris presents an opportunity for the tech industry to reset its relationship with Democrats in the administration. He emphasizes Harris's open-mindedness and personal history with tech, suggesting a potential shift from the Obama era tech policies. Kvokovic believes that Harris's approach would offer a different starting position for tech, where she would provide a platform for industry voices and maintain an open mind.
Potential Tech Industry Concerns Under a Harris Administration
Despite support for Kamala Harris in the tech industry, concerns persist regarding areas where Harris may lack focus or experience, like crypto and artificial intelligence regulation. While Harris has addressed issues such as bias in AI, her stance on broader tech policies remains somewhat unclear. Kvokovic acknowledges the need for industry dialogue and understanding in navigating potential regulatory challenges under Harris.
The Evolving Relationship Between Tech and Democrats in Washington
Reflecting on the shifting dynamics between tech and Democrats post-Obama era, Kvokovic stresses the importance of mature tech policy debates. He advocates for a move past the divisive 'honeymoon to divorce' stage towards constructive dialogue and nuanced regulatory discussions. Emphasizing the need for relationship counseling, Kvokovic suggests a path toward a more productive and thoughtful engagement between the tech industry and Democratic policymakers.
Vice President Kamala Harris has raised a lot of money from Silicon Valley over the years. From her campaigns for California Attorney General and U.S. Senator, to her first run at the White House, she’s been backed by executives from the likes of Google, Microsoft and Apple. Now that Harris is more or less the presumptive Democratic nominee, will tech support her again? Adam Kovacevich, the founder and CEO of the tech industry group Chamber of Progress, is making the case for it. He explains on today’s POLITICO Tech.