POLITICO Tech

Aaron Levie, CEO of Box and a backer of VP Kamala Harris, shares his insights on the political landscape post-election. He discusses his surprising shift towards embracing Trump’s deregulation agenda, largely influenced by his fellow tech leader, Elon Musk. Levie argues that Democrats should reconsider their stance on Musk and his proposed efficiency commission. The conversation highlights the need for pragmatic solutions, blending pro-business strategies with social responsibility amidst the ever-evolving relationship between tech and politics.

Ed Brzytwa, Vice President of International Trade at the Consumer Technology Association, discusses the looming tariffs proposed by President-elect Trump and their potential impact on the tech industry. He emphasizes how these tariffs could lead to increased prices for consumer electronics and harm small businesses. The conversation also highlights the industry's pushback against these policies, the trade-offs of relocating supply chains, and the broader economic consequences. Brzytwa warns of possible retaliation, stressing the complexity of balancing trade and innovation.

Christine Mui, a POLITICO reporter focusing on the defense industry, dives into the challenges that defense startups face in securing government contracts. She discusses the optimism sparked by the Trump administration and the backing of figures like Elon Musk, who advocate for reform in Pentagon technology procurement. Mui sheds light on the bureaucratic hurdles these startups must navigate and emphasizes the need for effective advocacy to enhance competition in defense contracting to unlock new funding opportunities.

Steven Waldman, co-founder and president of Rebuild Local News and Report for America, discusses the critical impact of news sources on voter behavior. He highlights how traditional media versus social platforms shape electoral choices, particularly among younger and Latino voters. Waldman delves into the rise of TikTok and YouTube as news sources, addressing the challenges of misinformation and the decline of local journalism. He emphasizes the importance of reliable information for community engagement and its influence on democratic processes.

Brendan Bordelon, a POLITICO reporter focused on tech policy, dives into the urgency of Congress addressing stalled tech legislation after recent elections. He discusses the pressing topics of artificial intelligence regulation and children's online safety, emphasizing the shift towards piecemeal approaches in AI legislation. Bordelon also highlights bipartisan challenges surrounding the Kids Online Safety Act and the complexities of managing risks posed by Chinese technology. With a packed agenda, lawmakers are eager to push through critical tech issues in a shifting political landscape.

Adam Kovacevich, CEO of Chamber of Progress and tech policy expert, discusses how Silicon Valley leaders are strategically aligning with Donald Trump following his election win. He reveals the tactics tech companies might employ, emphasizing relationship-building over ideology. The conversation dives into the implications for AI regulations, antitrust issues, and the interplay between Trump and figures like Elon Musk. Kovacevich also highlights the challenges of balancing free speech with antitrust narratives in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Meridith McGraw, a national political correspondent for POLITICO, and Derek Robertson, author of Digital Future Daily, discuss Elon Musk's rise in the political sphere amidst Donald Trump's comeback. They explore how Musk's financial backing has elevated his influence within Republican circles, especially among younger voters. The conversation delves into the shifting dynamics of Silicon Valley, Musk’s ambitions for federal budget cuts, and his strategic political alliances, highlighting the intriguing intersection of technology and politics.

Brendan Bordelon, a POLITICO Tech reporter, dives into the implications of a Republican-controlled Senate for technology policy. He discusses the potential decrease in regulations concerning artificial intelligence and cryptocurrency. The talk highlights bipartisan prospects for kids' online safety legislation and the evolving dynamics between Congress and Silicon Valley. Bordelon also points out how influential tech figures, like Elon Musk, may shape the Republican agenda, adding layers to the political landscape.

Election Night is a tech battle, with networks racing to impress viewers through innovative tools. Discussions dive into CNN’s impressive 'Magic Wall' app and the importance of simplicity in journalism. The podcast highlights the dual nature of technology—its ability to spread misinformation while enhancing transparency. There's a focus on adapting to modern consumption habits amid rising platforms like TikTok. Ultimately, the emphasis is on clear communication and the necessity for trust in media coverage during elections.

Ginny Badanes leads Microsoft’s Democracy Forward program, focused on protecting elections from disinformation and cyber threats. She discusses Microsoft's proactive measures in their Situation Room, highlighting teamwork on Election Day to ensure electoral integrity. Badanes anticipates chaotic disinformation tactics, fueled by AI technologies like deepfakes, and emphasizes the necessity of tech companies collaborating for accountability. She paints a clear picture of the looming challenges, drawing from past experiences while forging a path for improved communication and preparedness.