POLITICO Tech

Craig Newmark, the visionary behind Craigslist, now channels his efforts into combating disinformation and enhancing cybersecurity. In this discussion, he shares his thoughts on the risks of an emerging AI bubble, drawing parallels to the dot-com era while cautioning about deepfakes and AI-generated scams. Newmark emphasizes practical cybersecurity measures individuals can adopt, urges tech companies to proactively share scam signals, and reflects on fostering trust online. His overarching mission? To ensure the internet remains safe, useful, and trustworthy for all.

Dario Gil, the Undersecretary for Science at the U.S. Department of Energy and former IBM research director, dives into the energy demands posed by AI and quantum computing. He highlights the urgent electricity needs for data centers and discusses the ambitious DOE strategy balancing near-term grid upgrades with long-term fusion research. Gil also emphasizes the U.S.-China competition in R&D and the necessity of integrating security in research from the outset. His insights provide a fascinating look at the future of energy policy in a tech-driven world.

Joseph Gordon-Levitt, acclaimed actor and entrepreneur behind HitRecord, shares his insights on AI's profound effects on creativity and media. He expresses admiration for the technology while raising concerns over how data and intellectual property are handled. Gordon-Levitt advocates for clear laws supporting data ownership and fair compensation. He urges society to demand transparency from tech companies, emphasizing the need for public guardrails and regulations to protect artists and creators from exploitation in the evolving digital landscape.

Ian Stevenson, an energy and public lands reporter at POLITICO's E&E News, discusses the unexpected intersection of AI and voter concerns over energy costs. He explains how Democrats in key states are emphasizing data center impacts on energy affordability. With AI infrastructure on the rise, Stevenson highlights potential political roadblocks that could emerge in coming elections. The conversation also covers how local elections revealed growing voter awareness of energy issues, signaling significant implications for future campaigns.

Miriam Vogel, President and CEO of EqualAI and former chair of the National AI Advisory Council, dives into the intriguing world of AI governance. She discusses the need for clear guidelines to build public trust as tech companies pour billions into AI. Vogel argues that smart governance can actually accelerate adoption, much like safety measures in transportation. She emphasizes the critical role of both the government and companies in establishing standards. Additionally, she highlights accountability in AI development and warns that existing laws will apply to AI-related harms.

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.