SILICON VALLEY'S CONGRESSMAN PIVOTS TO AI REGULATION

Khanna has spent years cultivating relationships with Silicon Valley's elite and securing donations from tech leaders. His political calculus appears to have shifted as he campaigns on a wealth tax and criticism of what he calls the "Epstein class"—a reference to the concentration of power among wealthy individuals. The congressman's new stance reflects broader political pressure to address AI's rapid advancement and its societal implications. His pivot suggests growing recognition among lawmakers that tech industry deference carries political costs. Khanna's approach attempts to balance his historical ties to the industry with demands from voters and progressive constituencies for stronger tech regulation. Whether his record as a consistent tech advocate will undermine his credibility on AI oversight remains central to his campaign messaging.