POLITICO Tech

Explore how TikTok's algorithm behaved during the Israel-Gaza conflict, with data showing a more nuanced approach than expected. The analysis sheds light on content amplification, algorithm shifts, and the platform's response to political pressures, raising questions about the transparency and future of TikTok.

Coursera CEO Jeff Maggioncalda discusses the transformative power of AI in education, highlighting the impact on modern higher education and business decision-making. The podcast explores AI models' future role in analyzing college degrees and the challenges facing non-elite universities in adapting to changing industry demands.

Rachel Karten, a social media consultant for brands like Cava and West Elm, discusses the potential implications of losing TikTok on online culture and commerce. They explore TikTok's algorithm, influence on culture and small businesses, impact on brands and the creator economy, and speculations on the future of online platforms amid TikTok uncertainty.

Explore the shift towards online fundraising in politics, the disparity between Democrats and Republicans in online donations, the evolution of campaign fundraising tactics, changing dynamics in nationalized races, and the impact of online fundraising on election success.

Jack Clark, Anthropic co-founder, discusses building a safe AI model named Claude and the need for Washington to regulate AI. Topics include AI safety, regulatory impact, collaborations with AI safety institutes, AI in elections, and the concept of a national research cloud to support tech startups.

Jacob Helberg was influential in pushing for the law that forces the sale of TikTok. Now, he wants Congress to prepare for a future conflict with China, one that has artificial intelligence at the center. Helberg, who is a senior policy adviser at Palantir Technologies and sits on the congressional U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission, joins host Steven Overly to talk about the next frontier in U.S. tech competition with China. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Consumer Reports policy analyst Grace Gedye discusses loopholes in state AI bills and the need for stronger safeguards. The podcast explores the implications of AI legislation on critical decision-making, enforcement measures, and the debate between state and federal regulations.

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Ira Chinoy discusses how computers transformed election night in 1952, marking a shift towards more accurate predictions. The podcast explores the evolution of election night coverage, the application of historical lessons to AI in newsrooms, and the importance of countering misinformation in elections.

Media maven Tammy Haddad discusses how AI is transforming Washington's social scene and shaping D.C.'s social life. The podcast delves into the influence of AI on government decision-making, the collaboration among AI professionals, and the uncertainty surrounding AI regulation. It also explores the rise of new tech voices in Washington and speculates on the future impact of AI on society and politics, including the potential scenario of AI running for office.

Michael Schmidt, Director of the Commerce Department's CHIPS Program Office, discusses the significant financial support provided to leading chip makers by the Biden administration, including Micron Technology's $6.14 billion grant. They explore the impact of these investments on advancing technologies like artificial intelligence, strengthening the US supply chain, national security, and economic growth.