The article discusses the concept of “a clear and present danger” in relation to free speech, particularly focusing on Donald Trump’s political influence as he enters the second year of his second presidency. It highlights the transformations in international relations and the American political system, attributing some of these changes to the rise of a new oligarchy shaped by the tech revolution and AI, which poses significant, though less overt, dangers compared to past economic shifts.
The piece notes the societal impacts of the digital revolution and how it differs from previous industrial changes, emphasizing the unaccountable wealth and power of Silicon Valley tech leaders. It critiques the implications of the 2014 Supreme Court ruling in McCutcheon v. Federal Election Commission, which allowed unlimited political donations, thereby exacerbating the influence of corporate and private money in American politics.
Prominent tech figures, like Elon Musk and Peter Thiel, are portrayed as significant players in this new political economy, influencing both policy and political candidates. The article specifically mentions Thiel’s support for JD Vance, who has shifted from being anti-Trump to a supporter, illustrating a potential future threat to democracy if this alignment continues.
The author warns that while Trump’s direct influence may be declining, figures like Vance, backed by tech oligarchs, could represent a more concerning future for American democracy due to their unchecked power and extremist beliefs.
