On with Kara Swisher

Marc Benioff, CEO and co-founder of Salesforce, engages in a lively discussion with Kara Swisher. They navigate a range of hot topics, including his strong earnings report and the impact of activist investors, which he surprisingly finds 'fun.' Benioff shares his thoughts on Elon Musk's public persona and its complexities. The conversation also dives into the emotional challenges of tech layoffs and the shifting dynamics of work post-pandemic, highlighting the pressing need for flexibility and transparency in leadership.

Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's Corporate VP and consumer chief marketing officer, discusses the transformative power of AI and its applications in products like Bing. He delves into the ambitious capabilities of AI, touching on user experiences and the ethical considerations surrounding new technology. Mehdi reflects on the competitive dynamics between Bing and Google, the nuances of AI development, and how Microsoft's partnership with OpenAI is shaping the future. The conversation also highlights Bill Gates' perspective on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

Richard Haass, President of the Council on Foreign Relations, dives deep into America's shifting global standing post-Trump. He discusses the ramifications of the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing how U.S. credibility is waning and needs reassessment. The conversation touches on America's declining soft power and the challenges of managing relations with China. Haass also highlights the importance of civic responsibility amid rising political violence, urging the need for informed citizenship in today's turbulent political climate.

In this engaging discussion, Stanford Law professor Evelyn Douek, National Constitution Center leader Jeffrey Rosen, and UC Berkeley’s Hany Farid tackle the contentious issue of Section 230. They explore the legal battles surrounding tech accountability and whether removing this immunity could reshape the internet. The conversation dives into the balance of free speech and corporate responsibility, the implications of algorithm-driven content, and the urgent need for regulatory frameworks in a monopolized digital landscape.

Trae Stephens, co-founder and Executive Chairman of Anduril Industries, delves into the revolutionary role of AI in national security. He discusses the shift in defense tech dynamics, challenging traditional giants like Lockheed Martin with innovations from Silicon Valley. The conversation explores the use of drones in Ukraine and the ethical concerns surrounding military applications, including autonomous systems. Trae emphasizes the need for balancing technological advancement with human oversight, especially in sensitive areas like border security.

Congressman Ken Buck from Colorado, an outspoken critic of Big Tech and author of "Crushed: Big Tech's War on Free Speech," dives into his proposed TikTok ban and the fight for antitrust legislation. He discusses the implications of Big Tech on free speech, especially concerning youth mental health. Ken also shares insights on the challenges of regulating tech giants like Facebook and Apple, emphasizing the need for public engagement in protecting competition and the complexities of balancing free speech with accountability in the digital age.

Ruben Gallego, a progressive Arizona Congressman running for the U.S. Senate, tackles the evolving political landscape. He discusses facing off against 'Queen MAGA' Kari Lake and why he's unphased by Kyrsten Sinema's possible run as an independent. Gallego dives into identity politics, addressing societal expectations while humorously navigating sensitive topics. He emphasizes grassroots engagement and the broader implications of political alignments in Arizona, painting a vivid picture of the upcoming electoral battle.

Faiz Shakir, Bernie Sanders's 2020 campaign manager, Jennifer Palmieri, former White House Communications Director, and Tom Bonier, CEO of TargetSmart, engage in a lively discussion about the Democratic Party's current landscape. They delve into how Marjorie Taylor Greene's antics during the State of the Union unexpectedly boosted Biden’s image. They also explore the Democrats' narrative strategies and challenges in reconnecting with working-class voters, the shifting dynamics of youth engagement, and the implications of Trump’s influence on the 2024 race.

Brooke Jenkins, the San Francisco District Attorney known for her tough stance on public safety, dives into the complexities of policing in a rapidly changing political landscape. She discusses how the recent shifts in crime narratives have influenced her approach, including revoking plea deals and treating teen offenders as adults. Jenkins shares her perspective on the balance between accountability and reform, while tackling the challenges she faces as a woman of color in a controversial role. Is she a conservative or a progressive? The debate rages on!

Sangeeta Singh-Kurtz, a journalist and co-host of "Land of the Giants: Dating Games," dives into the intriguing world of online dating alongside industry veteran Lakshmi Rengarajan. They unravel the influence of Match Group, dominating the dating app market with brands like Tinder and Hinge. The conversation tackles how these apps monetize connections, the shift in user experiences, and the ongoing quest for genuine relationships in a profit-driven environment. Plus, they reflect on the journey from online dating's dubious past to its current status.