POLITICO Tech

Join Meredith Whittaker, President of the Signal Foundation and former Google employee turned tech critic, as she dives into the pressing issues of AI hype and privacy in our tech-driven world. She discusses how growing awareness of centralized tech's dangers is shaking its appeal. Whittaker warns about surveillance risks amplified by AI and the pitfalls of current business models. She underscores the need for transparency and ethical design in technology, arguing that the future of privacy depends on fundamental changes in how we approach AI and policymaking.

Liza Tobin, a geopolitical risk adviser and former China director on the U.S. National Security Council, shares her insights on the escalating tensions between the U.S. and China over tech. She discusses the potential impacts of China’s restrictions on rare earth exports, crucial for high-tech industries. Tobin highlights the strategic leverage China may be using in trade talks and contrasts U.S. and Chinese strengths in technology. She also addresses the political implications of U.S. dependence on mineral resources and what a potential Xi-Trump meeting could mean for future relations.

Matt Mahan, Mayor of San Jose and former tech entrepreneur, is on a mission to make his city a leader in AI integration for government services. He discusses innovative projects like synchronizing traffic signals to enhance bus routes. Mahan also highlights the balance needed in regulation, praising California's new AI safety law while cautioning against overregulation that stifles innovation. With his sights set on improving local governance, Mahan reflects on the importance of retaining data control amid vendor dependencies in the tech landscape.

James Anderson, a leader at Bloomberg Philanthropies' Government Innovation Programs, dives into the intriguing world of AI in local government. He discusses how AI is bridging resource gaps in under-resourced city halls and highlights innovative applications like optimizing school bus routes. Anderson outlines essential elements for AI readiness, such as quality data and in-house tech skills. He also emphasizes the importance of leadership and upskilling civil servants to ensure successful AI adoption, while advocating for human-centered approaches in smart city developments.

Brendan Bordelon and Anthony Adragna, both insightful POLITICO technology reporters, dive into the heated discussions from the recent AI & Tech Summit. They explore the partisan battles over online speech in the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, revealing tensions and differing strategies among lawmakers. The conversation also highlights the dichotomy between federal AI policy and state regulations, particularly California's approach, along with rising concerns about the influence of government on tech firms.

Keith Kupferschmid, CEO of the Copyright Alliance, represents the interests of creators and discusses a groundbreaking $1.5 billion settlement between Anthropic and authors over pirated works used for AI training. He explores the implications this case has for the future of copyright law and ethical practices in AI development. Kupferschmid emphasizes the urgent need for fair licensing agreements to protect creators amid ongoing legal uncertainties surrounding AI and copyright ownership. This settlement may set a significant precedent for future cases.

Aaron Levie, CEO of Box, dives into the government's strategic push to acquire AI tech at discounted rates, giving companies like OpenAI a chance to gain a foothold. He discusses the implications of these deals for collaboration and innovation within federal operations. Levie highlights the need for modernization in government to boost efficiency and attract top talent, while navigating the complex intersection of tech and policy. The talk underscores the potential of AI to transform government functions, setting the stage for a tech-savvy future.

Bharat Ramamurti, former deputy director of the National Economic Council under President Biden, discusses the looming threat of AI-driven unemployment, dubbing it the biggest economic issue currently ignored. He emphasizes the urgent need for national dialogue on job displacement as we head into the next election cycle. Ramamurti also critiques historical government assistance for displaced workers, advocating for more empowering measures. The conversation dives into the complexities of taxing corporations that replace human workers with AI and the wider economic implications at play.

Dean Ball, former senior policy adviser in the Office of Science and Technology Policy, shares insights on his role in crafting Trump's AI Action Plan. He discusses the crucial balance in AI regulation to encourage innovation while managing risks. Ball highlights the potential bubble in AI investment and the implications of allowing China to acquire American microchips. He emphasizes the ongoing challenges of copyright in AI, including fair compensation for artists, and the necessity for strategic collaboration between government and private sectors in guiding future AI development.

Suhas Subramanyam, Congressman from Virginia's 10th district and former tech policy advisor to President Obama, dives into the looming cybersecurity risks of quantum computing. He discusses his new legislation aimed at preparing the government for these challenges. The conversation highlights the urgent need for collaboration on post-quantum encryption strategies to protect sensitive data. Subramanyam also critiques the political landscapes of AI policy, comparing Trump’s recent plans with past bipartisan efforts while addressing ethical concerns in technology.