POLITICO Tech Podcast Summary: Former Rep. Will Hurd on Trump’s Tech Agenda
Release Date: January 27, 2025
Host: Stephen Overlea

Introduction

In the January 27, 2025 episode of the POLITICO Tech podcast, host Stephen Overlea engages in an in-depth conversation with former Republican Congressman Will Hurd, now Chief Strategy Officer at Chaos Industries, a defense tech company. The discussion centers around President Donald Trump’s burgeoning tech agenda, recent executive actions, and the implications for technology policy and national security.

Will Hurd’s Background and Relationship with Technology

Timestamp [02:07]

Will Hurd opens by reflecting on his cooperative relationship with Jared Kushner during Kushner’s tenure at the Office of American Innovation. Hurd emphasizes his extensive experience in technology procurement during his congressional years, highlighting his commitment to integrating advanced technology within government operations and national defense.

Will Hurd [02:30]: "I was the IT procurement guy when I was in Congress. I love all the conversation about how do you improve and get better tech into the government, but also how are we making sure our Warfighter is getting the best technology."

Trump Administration’s Tech Policy Initiatives

Timestamp [02:12] - [04:36]

Overlea outlines the Trump administration’s aggressive tech policy moves, including delays on the TikTok ban, new AI initiatives, a crypto executive order, and a substantial $500 billion investment in AI infrastructure. Hurd responds by expressing optimism about the administration’s continued focus on technology, drawing parallels to his past collaborative efforts.

Will Hurd [04:19]: "This is one of those areas where there's actually real bipartisan cooperation... technology has been something that Republicans and Democrats can agree on."

Influence of Elon Musk in the Administration

Timestamp [04:51] - [07:44]

The conversation shifts to Elon Musk’s role and influence within the Trump administration. Hurd views Musk’s involvement positively, citing Musk’s advocacy for technology modernization as beneficial for governmental agencies. He underscores the importance of adapting to technological changes in warfare, referencing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a case study for the necessity of advanced tech in defense.

Will Hurd [06:54]: "There's always going to be conflict, right? There's always going to be drama. That's part of the process... This is not going to be the last time we're going to have this issue."

Smart AI Policy Recommendations

Timestamp [07:53] - [09:19]

Overlea probes Hurd on what constitutes a smart AI policy under Trump’s administration, especially in light of recent revocations of Biden-era orders. Hurd emphasizes the strategic use of AI in national security, intelligence translation, and improving government services, while advocating for legislative oversight to ensure compliance with legal standards.

Will Hurd [08:12]: "Are we using AI to translate intelligence that we have? There should be no longer any untranslated intelligence sitting on, sitting on the shelves."

Optimism for Defense Tech and Pentagon Contracts

Timestamp [09:39] - [10:48]

Hurd shares his optimism regarding the Trump administration’s approach to defense technology, highlighting the demand for rapid technological advancements to support warfighters. He discusses the importance of shortening the technology adoption cycle within the military to maintain a strategic edge.

Will Hurd [10:48]: "There's a recognition from the top all the way to the bottom that having a three-year cycle of introducing new technology, it's old by the time it gets in their hands."

Discussion on TikTok Ban and National Security

Timestamp [11:16] - [16:13]

The topic of the extended TikTok ban surfaces, with Hurd providing insights into the legislative provisions that allow for an extension pending potential agreements. He speculates on possible buyers, including high-profile individuals like Mr. Beast, and underscores the critical importance of TikTok’s algorithm in national security considerations.

Will Hurd [12:06]: "The algorithm is the secret sauce. And will ByteDance and the Chinese authorities want to have a competitor to ByteDance? It seems that the Chinese government has indicated that they're not going to tell a Chinese company what to do about whether it's their cap table or whether they sell."

Hurd also addresses the public’s disconnect with national security issues, noting that everyday concerns often overshadow strategic threats posed by technological dominance and geopolitical tensions.

Will Hurd [14:28]: "There's a disconnect, right. I think it’s a broader disconnect too, about what happens in Taiwan and why should we care about Taiwan?"

Tech Leaders’ Support for Trump

Timestamp [16:13] - [17:41]

Hurd reflects on the surprising support from Silicon Valley leaders for the Trump administration, attributing it to the administration’s favorable policies towards technology industries. He maintains that cooperation between the public and private sectors is vital for national security and technological advancement, despite inherent political frictions.

Will Hurd [16:35]: "The people that he's bringing in, the positions are going to be something that are ultimately positive for those industries... it’s best for American citizens if the public sector and the private sector are working together."

Conclusion

In concluding the episode, Overlea and Hurd reaffirm the importance of cohesive technology policies in national security and government efficiency. Hurd remains optimistic about the Trump administration’s direction in tech policy, emphasizing the potential for bipartisan cooperation and the pivotal role of advanced technology in safeguarding national interests.

Will Hurd [17:45]: "Always a pleasure."

Key Takeaways

• Bipartisan Cooperation: Technology remains a bipartisan area where consensus is achievable, fostering collaborative advancements.

• AI in National Security: Strategic implementation of AI is crucial for intelligence operations, government services, and modern warfare.

• Defense Tech Investment: Significant investments and streamlined procurement processes are essential for maintaining military technological superiority.

• TikTok and National Security: The TikTok ban highlights the intersection of technology, national security, and international relations, with ongoing debates about data security and geopolitical influence.

• Public Perception: Bridging the gap between national security imperatives and public understanding is necessary for informed policy support.

This comprehensive discussion with Will Hurd provides valuable insights into the current and future landscape of technology policy under the Trump administration, emphasizing the critical role of technology in national security and governance.