“Sometimes, in Silicon Valley, there is this attitude that we know best and we can change the world. The boldness allows us to invent the future. But, we need more empathy for those who are left behind and a recognition that Silicon Valley can't just call the shots and expect change.”

American politician and attorney

Ro Khanna is an American politician and attorney, serving as the U.S. representative for California’s 17th congressional district since 2017. A Democrat, he was elected after defeating longtime incumbent Mike Honda in 2016, following an earlier run for the same seat in 2014. Khanna also served as deputy assistant secretary in the U.S. Department of Commerce under President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2011. His public career is rooted in government and law, with a focus on national policy and representation in Congress.