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How Peter Thiel Became the Right’s Tech-Authoritarian Kingmaker
Aug 25, 2024
Max Chafkin, a Bloomberg Businessweek reporter and author of 'The Contrarian', dives into Peter Thiel's surprising evolution from Silicon Valley oddball to a major political influencer. He discusses Thiel's mentorship of J.D. Vance and his impact on the GOP's hard-right shift post-2020. Chafkin also critiques Thiel's controversial views on democracy and online privacy, revealing how his ideologies resonate with a new generation of tech leaders. The conversation paints a vivid picture of how Thiel is reshaping conservative politics and its implications for the future.
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Quick takeaways
- Peter Thiel has evolved from a Silicon Valley outsider to a pivotal figure shaping the Republican Party's hard-right ideology.
- Thiel’s financial influence is substantial, having contributed around $32 million to candidates aligning with his nationalistic and populist themes.
Deep dives
Peter Thiel's Rise in Republican Politics
Peter Thiel, a significant venture capitalist in Silicon Valley, has emerged as a central figure in Republican politics, particularly in the post-Trump era. His influence is attributed to both his extensive financial contributions and his espousal of hard-right ideologies that resonate with the Trump base. By backing younger, ideologically aligned candidates like J.D. Vance, Thiel aims to reshape the direction of the Republican Party, illustrating his role as a key power broker. His notable political donations, including those to midterm Senate candidates, highlight his strategic support for figures who embody Trumpism with a more disciplined approach.
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