Rep. Ro Khanna on Tech, Trump & Elon
On with Kara Swisher
Deep Dive
Why is Representative Ro Khanna willing to work with Elon Musk on government efficiency, despite Musk's controversial actions?
Khanna believes that while Musk's actions are problematic, there are areas where he can bring expertise, such as enterprise IT software and competitive bidding in defense contracts. Khanna is also willing to engage in these areas to bring about some accountability and reform, but he insists on transparency and a commitment to not cutting social programs like Social Security and Medicare.
Why does Ro Khanna think the private insurance industry is broken and supports Medicare for All?
Khanna points out that the private insurance industry makes $1.4 trillion in revenue and $70 billion in profits, but still denies claims and leaves people in financial ruin. He argues that this system is fundamentally flawed and that Medicare for All would ensure everyone has health care without the bureaucracy and profit motives of private insurers.
Why doesn't Ro Khanna consider himself a democratic socialist?
Khanna identifies as a 'progressive capitalist' because he supports entrepreneurship and the role of markets in allocating capital, but also believes in a strong government to ensure health care, education, and housing for all. He contrasts this with democratic socialism, which he sees as less supportive of market-based capitalism.
Why does Ro Khanna think working with tech and business leaders is necessary for reindustrializing America?
Khanna believes that to bring new industry and jobs to deindustrialized areas, the Democratic Party must mobilize both tech and industry leaders alongside union leaders. He cites examples like building cleaner steel in Pennsylvania and Michigan, where cooperation between business, unions, and government can lead to economic revitalization.
Why has tech regulation legislation not passed despite bipartisan support?
The lack of legislative progress on tech regulation is due to a combination of debates over federal vs. state standards and a lack of prioritization from political leadership. Additionally, the tech industry itself has lobbied heavily against these bills, particularly those that increase liability and algorithmic accountability.
Why is Ro Khanna skeptical about preemptive pardons for Trump's perceived political enemies?
Khanna is concerned that preemptive pardons could undermine the rule of law and set a dangerous precedent. He believes that if Trump were to use the FBI and Department of Justice for retribution, it would severely damage American democratic norms and the independence of the judiciary.
Why does Ro Khanna support the Kids Online Safety Act (COSA) despite opposition from the tech industry?
Khanna supports COSA because it addresses the harm caused to children by online content and algorithms. The bill requires platforms to have safety standards and could hold them liable for causing harm to minors. Despite opposition from tech companies, Khanna believes it is a necessary step to protect children and could have broader implications for AI regulation.
Why is Ro Khanna optimistic about the Democratic Party despite Trump's victory?
Khanna remains hopeful about the Democratic Party's future because he sees progress in the country's movement towards a more cohesive, multiracial democracy. He believes that while Trump's victory is concerning, it can serve as a wake-up call for Democrats to better address economic issues and connect with working-class voters across different races and regions.
Why does Ro Khanna think Donald Trump poses serious threats to American democracy?
Khanna is concerned that Trump could undermine democratic norms by targeting political opponents, such as members of the January 6 committee, and by implementing policies that stifle debate and criticism. He also worries about mass raids and the harassment of immigrants, which would erode the principles of a free and just society.
Why does Ro Khanna support federal financing for reindustrialization and job creation in deindustrialized towns?
Khanna believes that federal financing is crucial for revitalizing deindustrialized areas and creating high-paying jobs. He argues that a comprehensive economic development strategy, similar to FDR's New Deal, is needed to address economic inequality and provide opportunities for working-class Americans in various industries, not just high-tech sectors.
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