cover of episode Trump II: A New Era for Tech Policy or Just More Chaos?

Trump II: A New Era for Tech Policy or Just More Chaos?

2024/11/10
logo of podcast The Quantum Drift

The Quantum Drift

Shownotes Transcript

With Trump back in the White House, tech policy is bracing for whiplash. In this episode, Robert and Haley tackle what a Trump-Vance administration might mean for tech giants, AI regulation, and Big Tech’s role in shaping American life. Expect an in-depth look at how Trump’s unpredictable style and his close connections—especially with Big Tech critics and AI entrepreneurs like Elon Musk—could rewrite the rulebook on everything from AI safety to data privacy.

Here’s what we’re diving into:

  • Deregulation and AI: How a roll-back on AI restrictions, framed as a way to “outcompete China,” might supercharge innovation—or create new risks. What happens when AI guardrails are cast aside?
  • Section 230 and Big Tech: Will Trump actually take on Section 230, the policy that shields social media platforms from liability? And how might his personal interests in Truth Social complicate his stance?
  • Antitrust Actions and Big Tech: With both Trump and VP-elect JD Vance openly critical of tech monopolies, could we see intensified antitrust actions against giants like Amazon and Google?
  • The TikTok Dilemma: Trump may no longer be pushing for a TikTok ban, but tensions around data privacy and foreign ownership haven’t gone away. What’s next for TikTok and the complex web of U.S.-China tech relations?

Whether you’re cheering for less regulation or worried about AI without limits, this episode unpacks the potential shifts and shocks for tech policy. Join us as we examine what a Trump-Vance administration could mean for Silicon Valley, privacy laws, and the AI race.