In February, Katie Porter discovered she was the target of a vast conspiracy during her Senate candidacy. Attacks by a super PAC funded by tech firms involved in cryptocurrency painted her as “anti-crypto,” although the evidence was false. Despite raising millions for her campaign, she lost after a negative ad campaign. Fairshake’s main goal was to intimidate politicians and ensure a pro-crypto stance. Silicon Valley is now a powerful lobbying force, using aggressive tactics spearheaded by individuals like Chris Lehane. Companies like Airbnb strategically wield immense financial resources for political influence, altering local regulations and fostering alliances with labor unions.
https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2024/10/14/silicon-valley-the-new-lobbying-monster