POLITICO Tech

The California legislature passed a sweeping AI safety bill over the opposition of tech industry lobbyists. Now, whether it actually becomes law will depend on Gov. Gavin Newsom. And he has until month’s end to sign or veto it. On POLITICO Tech, reporter Jeremy White joins host Steven Overly to explain who has the most influence on Newsom’s decisions and why it could affect AI regulation in Washington. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-Va.) stepped onto the House floor in July and became the first person to address Congress using artificial intelligence. Wexton was diagnosed last year with an aggressive and incurable brain disease called progressive supranuclear palsy that, among other symptoms, has made her natural speaking voice weaker and less clear. So she turned to an AI replica. On POLITICO Tech, Wexton joins host Steven Overly to talk about using an AI-generated voice, and how her experience has shaped her views on tech regulation and accessibility. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An investment fund for tech startups helping Republicans to win elections has put less money into fewer companies than its Democratic rival. (We talked to them a few episodes back, go give it a listen.) But Eric Wilson, the managing partner at Startup Caucus, contends that doesn’t mean the GOP is behind. On POLITICO Tech, Wilson tells host Steven Overly why Republican campaigns are less reliant on technology than Democrats, at least for now, and how that’s going to change.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the presidential election just two months away, this is prime disinformation season. The period immediately before and after Election Day is when administrators worry most about campaigns to deceive voters. On POLITICO Tech, Darrell West from the Brookings Institution joins host Steven Overly to discuss the new book “Lies That Kill” and how people can protect themselves from online disinformation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shannon Nash, co-founder of Tech4Kamala, fights to amplify the voices of Silicon Valley's grassroots against billionaire influence. She discusses the importance of supporting Kamala Harris as a tech-friendly candidate who can reshape the industry’s future. Topics include AI regulation, digital equity, and fostering political engagement among tech professionals. Nash advocates for civil conversations and understanding diverse perspectives, stressing the need for unity in navigating today’s political climate.

Betsy Hoover, a Democratic campaign veteran and co-founder of Higher Ground Labs, shares her insights on the transformative role of AI in political campaigns. She discusses how AI aids in tasks like writing fundraising emails and managing social media, making a significant difference in tight races. The conversation highlights the need for responsible AI usage in politics and contrasts the tech strategies of Democrats and Republicans. Hoover believes that leveraging advanced technology effectively could boost voter engagement and help propel Democrats to victory.

Join influencer Olivia Julianna and creator economy expert Lia Haberman as they delve into the vibrant role of content creators at the Democratic National Convention. Julianna shares her experiences engaging young voters through social media. They discuss how influencers are reshaping political narratives and challenging traditional media's grip on political news. The conversation also highlights the balance between advocacy and objective journalism, shedding light on the evolving relationship between creators and news reporting in our digital age.

Adam Candeub, a former Trump administration official, shares his insights on the ongoing battle between conservatives and big tech over online speech. He argues that a Trump return to the White House is crucial for advancing free speech initiatives. The discussion navigates the complexities of tech regulations and their implications for free speech, spotlighting the potential influence of figures like Elon Musk in reshaping social media. Candeub also emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to regulation, advocating for bipartisan solutions amid a politically charged environment.

Doha Mekki, the DOJ's principal deputy assistant attorney general for antitrust, shares insights on the landmark ruling against Google for its monopolistic practices. She discusses the implications of this victory for online markets and the significance of public accountability. The conversation explores how Google's default agreements impact competition and innovation. Mekki also highlights the evolving landscape of antitrust law, emphasizing the Biden administration's proactive strategies for enhancing market fairness while navigating political challenges.

Jake DeWitte is the CEO of Oklo, a Silicon Valley startup pioneering small nuclear reactor technology. He discusses the Biden administration's significant investments in small modular reactors and their potential to reshape America's nuclear industry. DeWitte offers insights into the unique advantages of next-generation reactors, including safety and efficiency. The conversation also touches on bipartisan support for nuclear energy, the challenges of regulatory processes, and the necessity of a mixed approach in reactor development to meet diverse energy demands.