POLITICO Tech

Greg Epstein, the Humanist chaplain for Harvard and MIT and author of "Tech Agnostic," probes the temple-like reverence many hold for technology. He argues that tech has morphed into a modern religion, fostering blind faith. Epstein discusses the ethical dilemmas created by tech companies, the parallels between technology and spirituality, and the urgent need for reformers to challenge harmful practices. He envisions a society where human dignity takes precedence over mere technological advancement.

Alan Davidson, Assistant Secretary of Commerce and leader of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, dives into the hot-button issue of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment program. He discusses how this initiative has become a flashpoint in political debates, especially with GOP criticism during an election cycle. Davidson highlights advances in broadband investment across underserved areas, the complexities in states like Texas, and the significance of ensuring reliable internet access for all Americans. Tune in for insights into the future of broadband amid shifting political landscapes!

Jessica Piper, a POLITICO reporter specializing in the crypto industry and its political influence, discusses how the crypto sector is making waves in this election cycle. The industry's significant financial contributions aim to reshape Congress, particularly in key Senate races. Jessica reveals that campaign ads focus on broader issues like the economy and immigration, cleverly avoiding the crypto topic. She highlights the industry's bipartisan spending strategy and the unusual tactics used to influence voter opinions beyond cryptocurrency itself.

Danielle Lee Tomson, research manager at the University of Washington’s Center for an Informed Public, delves into the tumultuous realm of disinformation following recent hurricanes. She highlights how fake claims and conspiracy theories exacerbate crisis recovery efforts. The conversation touches on the challenges government agencies face as misinformation intertwines with electoral politics and public trust. Danielle emphasizes the difficulty in tracking these false narratives on social media and the urgent need for effective communication strategies to combat this rising threat.

In this fascinating discussion, national political reporter Alex Isenstadt and Digital Future Daily author Derek Robertson explore Elon Musk's efforts to rally support for Donald Trump. They dissect Musk's ability to influence key swing states and appeal to younger voters, dubbed the 'bro vote.' The guests also examine Musk’s shift towards conservative values and how his old-school libertarian beliefs clash with current Silicon Valley ideals. Will Musk’s political engagement reshape his legacy and sway undecided voters? Tune in to find out!

Scott Babwah Brennen, Director of the Center on Technology Policy at NYU, leads research on AI's role in political advertising. He dives into a striking study where AI disclaimers in political ads surprisingly undermine candidates' credibility. The conversation explores how these ads challenge public trust and the implications of misleading information. Brennen advocates for better regulations to improve transparency and labeling, highlighting AI's subtle yet impactful effects on voter perception and political engagement.

Aidan Gomez, CEO of Cohere and a rural Canada native, shares insights into the rapidly evolving world of AI. He discusses the challenges of convincing companies and the public to embrace AI technology. Gomez emphasizes the need for accessible AI and the obstacles posed by computational demands. He also addresses the importance of government guidance alongside industry responsibility in AI development. Lastly, he envisions a future where AI improves productivity and reduces mundane tasks, transforming various industries.

Mark Scott, a Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council and expert in online disinformation, shares insights on the digital landscape shaped by the Israel-Hamas conflict. He highlights the surge of propaganda on social media and compares tactics used in this conflict to those in previous wars, like Russia-Ukraine. Scott discusses TikTok's influence on political views and the challenge of managing misinformation. He emphasizes the need for improved digital literacy to combat disinformation and the responsibility of tech companies in geopolitical dynamics.

Maria Ressa, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and founder of Rappler, highlights the critical stakes for democracy in the upcoming U.S. election. She shares her experiences facing persecution for her journalism in the Philippines and emphasizes the influence of big tech on disinformation. Ressa calls for heightened awareness and action to combat the threats against journalistic integrity, illustrating the dangers posed by AI and social media. She stresses that the survival of factual reporting is essential in navigating today’s complex landscape.

Katie Harbath, the chief global affairs officer at Duco Experts, dives into the tech issues that resonate with voters, revealing insights from a recent poll. She discusses the rising prominence of concerns like online child safety and election integrity in political discourse. The conversation shifts to the role of influencers in modern campaigning and how they engage voters differently than traditional pundits. Lastly, the anxieties surrounding AI, including job displacement and deep fakes, are examined, stressing the need for thoughtful regulation in the evolving landscape.