HBAC #82 with Asheesh Argawal

In this episode of the Hilliard Beacon Audio Companion, hosts Jordan Smith, Tim Hofmann, and Kevin Corvo sit down with Asheesh Agarwal, a seasoned government lawyer who has served in senior roles at the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Currently an advisor for the American Edge Project, Agarwal brings insights on cybersecurity threats, the importance of technology to national security, and the global competition with states like China and Russia.Agarwal discusses the critical vulnerabilities facing both local and national systems, focusing on phishing attacks, intellectual property theft, and the rise of sophisticated cybercriminal syndicates. The conversation highlights common sense actions for communities and individuals, emphasizing the importance of strong cybersecurity measures like two-factor authentication and strong passwords on a personal level.Further, Agarwal explores the broader implications of AI and automation, from its role in agriculture to concerns about the technology's impact on labor markets. The discussion rounds out with an exploration of America's competitive position in the global tech landscape, with Asheesh advocating for a restrained, balanced regulatory approach that encourages innovation without stifling growth. It's an eye-opening look at the ongoing intersection of technology, policy, and national security.Asheesh Agarwal is a prominent American lawyer specializing in technology, competition, and national security law. With a distinguished career in both the U.S. Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission, Agarwal has played key roles in shaping U.S. policy on competition and regulatory enforcement. At the FTC, he served as Assistant Director of the Office of Policy Planning, where he focused on promoting competition and addressing antitrust issues.Currently, Agarwal advises the American Edge Project, a technology and national security consortium dedicated to maintaining America's technological leadership on the global stage. His work addresses cybersecurity challenges, the evolving threat of intellectual property theft, and the impact of emerging technologies like AI on both the economy and labor markets. Asheesh has regularly been invited to address nationally prominent bodies such as the Federalist Society and has argued cases on assorted federal circuits. His expertise is frequently sought after in the context of government, law, and technology innovation.The Hilliard Beacon is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit hilliardbeacon.substack.com/subscribe