Silicon Valley leaders from both sides of the aisle reacted with horror Wednesday after thousands pushed past police and stormed the U.S. Capitol in a dangerous attempt to thwart a peaceful transfer of power. One local lawmaker was even in tears, comparing the stunning scene in Washington to the terrorism acts of 9/11. The mob...
Despite leaving Congress, Honda is working on politics behind the scenes
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Former Congressman Mike Honda lost his seat to Rep. Ro Khanna in 2016 but that hasn’t stopped the longtime legislator from playing a role in politics. Honda has stayed involved in politics over the past four years, supporting the Democratic party, working for immigrants’ rights and promoting other Asian American lawmakers. In...
Congress reaches deal on new COVID-19 relief bill as cases soar
WASHINGTON, D.C. — After months of failed negotiations, Congress reached a deal Sunday on a $900 billion coronavirus relief package. The bill is expected to pass Monday. “At long last, we have the bipartisan breakthrough the country has needed,” Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said on the Senate floor. With the coronavirus pandemic accelerating, Congress...
Witnesses warn Congress a chaotic presidential transition leaves nation vulnerable
WASHINGTON, D.C — Amid a chaotic presidential transition, political experts are warning Congress that a smooth transfer of power is vital for national security. At a House subcommittee hearing on Thursday, Lisa Brown told legislators the presidential transition is a vulnerable time for the United States. Errors and oversights are more likely to occur during...
How right-wing extremism moved into mainstream America
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Proud Boys were treated with deference as they walked along the capital’s streets earlier this month during the Million MAGA March. A handful of other attendees asked the group if they would pose for photos — the members happily obliged — while others cheered when they saw the pack approaching in...
Local lawmakers being considered for Harris’s senate seat
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Sen. Kamala Harris (D-Calif.) will soon be sworn in as vice president, and a handful of local legislators could be tapped to fill the seat she will leave behind. “We are working through the cattle call of considerations,” Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom said this week. “I want to make sure it’s inclusive....
Silicon Valley incumbents heading back to Washington
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Silicon Valley’s congressional incumbents held strong on Election Day with Democratic Reps. Ro Khanna, Zoe Lofgren and Anna Eshoo all retaining their seats. In District 17, Khanna received 75.8% of the vote. Republican challenger Ritesh Tandon took 24.2%. “I am so honored to have such strong support and want to thank everyone...
Otto Lee charges ahead of Chu in Santa Clara County supervisorial race
After being out of office for nine years, former Sunnyvale Mayor Otto Lee appears to be headed for victory in the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors race. Chu faced Assemblymember Kansen Chu in the District 3 race. Lee is ahead with 60.2% of the vote as of 5 p.m. Nov. 5. Chu trailed with...
Khanna introduces $900 billion bill to expand jobs in science, technology
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Fremont, has introduced a bill aimed at expanding job opportunities in science and technology. The 21st Century Jobs Act would allocate $900 billion over 10 years for research and development in emerging technologies, such as climate science, synthetic biology, artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. It would further create a...
Free speech vs. censorship: Silicon Valley tech giants questioned by Senate
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senate Republicans accused Silicon Valley tech giants of censorship during a hearing Wednesday intended to examine whether a provision in the Communications Decency Act gives internet companies too much protection. Section 230 has become controversial in recent years because it provides tech companies with broad legal immunity for what their users post...