POLITICO Tech

In this insightful discussion, POLITICO reporter Anthony Adragna, who specializes in tech policy on Capitol Hill, sheds light on the evolving dynamics between lawmakers and Big Tech. He highlights a significant shift as some critics in Congress soften their stance. Topics include the recent bipartisan push for the Kids Online Safety Act, the implications of government efficiency cuts on tech regulation, and the looming threat of a government shutdown impacting critical funding discussions. Adragna provides a compelling perspective on the current tech landscape in Washington.

Adam Wren, a POLITICO reporter focused on Elon Musk's government overhaul, dives into the controversial data practices stemming from Musk's team. He discusses how these changes provoke concerns about sensitive data mishandling and the potential for misuse in Musk's ventures. Wren highlights bipartisan worries about AI's ethical implications, especially regarding privacy. The conversation also touches on the political fallout related to Dogecoin and how Musk's shifting popularity impacts the landscape as the midterms approach.

Calder McHugh, a POLITICO reporter, dives into the evolving role of Joe Rogan in political discourse. He discusses how Rogan's defense of Elon Musk is alienating some longtime fans. The conversation highlights the pressures podcasters face as online influencers navigating shifting political alignments. McHugh also explores the paradox of moving from outsider critics to powerful figures and the broader implications for political communication as podcasters play a pivotal role in shaping the upcoming election.

Satya Thallam, a senior advisor at Americans for Responsible Innovation and a former counselor in the Office of Management and Budget, shares insights on the evolving tech landscape under new Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. He discusses the anticipated policy shifts surrounding artificial intelligence and U.S.-China tech relations. Thallam highlights the potential security-focused approach to technology, the complexities of AI safety initiatives, and the challenges posed by workforce cuts in government technology offices. It's a deep dive into the future of tech policy during a pivotal administration.

Mohar Chatterjee, a reporter for POLITICO, dives into the implications of Gail Slater's nomination to lead the Justice Department's antitrust division. They discuss how Slater plans to navigate the complexities of regulating major companies like Apple and Google. Chatterjee highlights the contrasting antitrust strategies between the Trump and Biden administrations, alongside shifting Republican views on Big Tech censorship. The dialogue also touches on how evolving competition metrics intersect with AI regulation, shaping the future of both industries.

Alondra Nelson, a professor and co-author of President Biden's AI Bill of Rights, shares her insights on AI policy after attending Vice President JD Vance's speech in Paris. Nelson discusses the contrasting views on AI safety and its impact on the workforce, emphasizing the need for integrating workers' rights into AI legislation. She critiques the America-first strategy, highlighting concerns over bias and censorship in emerging technologies while advocating for balanced regulation that fosters innovation and protects rights.

Elena Schneider, a national political reporter for POLITICO, dives into the shifting sands of Silicon Valley's political loyalties. She explores how Democrats, led by Hakeem Jeffries, are making a push to win back tech donors who have leaned towards Trump. Schneider highlights concerns about the absence of conversation on key issues like AI and cryptocurrency, emphasizing the desperate need for a constructive Democratic vision. She also discusses the potential fallout if these influential donors align more with the Republican party.

Samantha Radocchia, known as Sam Rad, is an anthropologist and tech entrepreneur who advises organizations like the United Nations on future technological impacts. In this discussion, she explores the rise of a decentralized society that may upend traditional power structures. Radocchia delves into how technologies like Bitcoin reshape identity and governance. She emphasizes the importance of adapting to rapid changes and the role of generative AI in innovation, while advocating for reclaiming humanity in a post-human landscape.

Maggie Miller, a cybersecurity reporter for Politico, dives into the repercussions of recent budget cuts at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). She highlights how personnel changes—many from election security roles—are impacting efforts against election disinformation. Miller discusses the agency's shift in focus under the new Homeland Security leadership and raises alarms about escalating cybersecurity threats, particularly from foreign adversaries, as CISA navigates its uncertain future.

Yoshua Bengio, an AI pioneer and professor at the University of Montreal, shares his insights on the urgent need for AI safety in light of the upcoming AI Action Summit in Paris. He highlights the dramatic shift in focus from risk mitigation to rapid deployment of technology. Bengio urges leaders to address the uncertainties surrounding general-purpose AI and emphasizes the necessity of responsible regulations. He also discusses the global implications of Generative AI and the challenges posed by varying governmental attitudes toward safety and innovation.