POLITICO Tech Podcast Summary Episode: "Data will soon be less secure. What can Washington do?"
Release Date: August 7, 2025
Host: Stephen Overle
Guest: Congressman Suhas Subramaniam

Introduction

In the August 7, 2025 episode of POLITICO Tech, host Stephen Overle delves into the pressing issue of data security in the face of advancing quantum computing. The episode features Congressman Suhas Subramaniam, a relatively new member of Capitol Hill with a robust background in technology policy, including his tenure as a tech policy advisor to President Barack Obama. The discussion centers on the imminent cybersecurity risks posed by quantum computing, the legislative efforts underway to mitigate these threats, and the broader implications for artificial intelligence (AI) policy in the current political landscape.

Quantum Computing and Data Security

Quantum Computing Threat to Encryption

Congressman Subramaniam opens the conversation by highlighting the transformative yet perilous nature of quantum computing. He explains that while encryption currently serves as a cornerstone for data protection across governmental and private sectors, quantum computing has the potential to "break encryption and render the way we protect information obsolete" (02:34).

Legislative Response: Quantum Preparedness Bill

Subramaniam discusses his collaboration with Congressman John McGuire on a new bill aimed at quantum preparedness. The legislation seeks to ensure that the federal government is equipped to handle the vulnerabilities introduced by quantum advancements. The bill emphasizes the importance of investing in research and collaborating with the private sector to develop post-quantum encryption methods that are resistant to quantum attacks (04:42).

Notable Quotes:

• "We don't want to get to a place where the bad guys can use quantum to break encryption and steal valuable information." — Suhas Subramaniam (02:34)
• "We're trying to be prepared for a post quantum world and continue to be a leader in quantum computing." — Suhas Subramaniam (02:34)

AI Policy and Administration's Approach

Comparison of Administrations' AI Strategies

Subramaniam contrasts the AI initiatives of the Obama administration with those of the current Trump administration. He acknowledges that while there are bipartisan elements in the Trump administration's AI agenda, such as investing in basic research and forming partnerships, he criticizes aspects he perceives as overly politicized. Specifically, he takes issue with the administration's approach to algorithmic bias, arguing that it has become "very political" and conflates diversity initiatives with bias in a way that hampers objective policy-making (11:50).

Regulation vs. Strategic Guidance

When discussing the need for AI regulation, Subramaniam advocates for reasonable guardrails rather than heavy-handed legislation. He expresses concern over the administration's tendency to shape AI development to fit political agendas, potentially stifling innovation and ethical standards (14:14).

Notable Quotes:

• "The idea of algorithmic bias has been out there for a while, right... what they consider bias... became very political." — Suhas Subramaniam (11:50)
• "AI is most effective when you have a person who is working hand in hand with that technology and can correct some of the errors." — Suhas Subramaniam (18:20)

Use of AI in Government Agencies

Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and AI Integration

The discussion shifts to the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) and its role in integrating AI technologies like OpenAI's ChatGPT into federal agencies. Subramaniam reflects on his experience during the Obama administration, which saw AI as a tool for enhancing government services and efficiency. However, he expresses pessimism regarding the current administration's implementation of AI, citing instances where AI tools are being used to suppress diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and other programs unrelated to these areas (18:20).

Concerns Over AI Misuse

Subramaniam is particularly concerned about the administration's use of AI to control narratives and fire employees associated with DEI, even when their work is unrelated to these initiatives. He argues that this misuse undermines the potential benefits of AI in government, such as streamlining service delivery and reducing costs—examples he mentions include faster delivery of Social Security benefits and other public services (18:20).

Notable Quotes:

• "The second Trump administration, I have serious concerns about the way it's using AI." — Suhas Subramaniam (18:20)
• "AI is most effective when you have a person who is working hand in hand with that technology and can correct some of the errors and guide it in the right way." — Suhas Subramaniam (18:20)

Congressional Response and Future Outlook

Bipartisan Efforts and Political Dynamics

Despite being on the minority side in Congress, Subramaniam emphasizes the importance of being vocally critical of the administration's approach to technology regulation. He advocates for building bipartisan consensus to ensure that technology policies promote innovation while safeguarding national security and ethical standards (16:31).

Preparation for Technological Breakthroughs

Subramaniam reiterates his commitment to preparing for technological breakthroughs, ensuring that the United States remains at the forefront of technological innovation while mitigating associated risks. He underscores the necessity of proactive measures to avoid calamitous events resulting from unpreparedness in a post-quantum world and the ethical deployment of AI (05:53; 16:31).

Notable Quotes:

• "When Congress brings its attention to something, it's almost a signal to both the private sector as well as research institutions." — Suhas Subramaniam (06:41)
• "We want to make sure that that's not possible for either party in the future." — Suhas Subramaniam (17:27)

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Subramaniam reaffirming his commitment to leveraging technology to enhance government efficiency and security while expressing concerns over the current administration's handling of AI and quantum computing policies. He advocates for a balanced approach that encourages innovation while implementing necessary safeguards against emerging technological threats.

Key Takeaways:

• Quantum Computing poses a significant threat to current encryption methods, necessitating proactive legislative measures to secure data in a post-quantum era.
• AI Policy requires balanced regulation to harness its benefits while addressing ethical concerns, avoiding politicization that can hinder objective policy development.
• Government Adoption of AI has the potential to greatly enhance efficiency and service delivery but must be implemented thoughtfully to avoid misuse and ensure ethical standards.
• Bipartisan Collaboration is essential for effective technology policy-making that promotes national security, innovation, and ethical governance.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• "We don't want to get to a place where the bad guys can use quantum to break encryption and steal valuable information." — Suhas Subramaniam (02:34)
• "We're trying to be prepared for a post quantum world and continue to be a leader in quantum computing." — Suhas Subramaniam (02:34)
• "The idea of algorithmic bias has been out there for a while, right... what they consider bias... became very political." — Suhas Subramaniam (11:50)
• "AI is most effective when you have a person who is working hand in hand with that technology and can correct some of the errors and guide it in the right way." — Suhas Subramaniam (18:20)
• "When Congress brings its attention to something, it's almost a signal to both the private sector as well as research institutions." — Suhas Subramaniam (06:41)

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the critical discussions from the episode, providing insights into the interplay between emerging technologies and legislative actions aimed at securing and optimizing their benefits for society.