Political Breakdown
The Tech Billionaires’ ‘War on Democracy’
In his new book “The Nerd Reich: Silicon Valley Fascism and the War on Democracy,” journalist Gil Durán warns that tech billionaires are attempting to overthrow American democracy – a movement that’s been years in the making. But will they succeed?
Aug 13, 2026
Updated 4:48 pm PT
Marisa Lagos
Thousands of people fill the streets of Los Angeles, California on May 1, 2025 to attend the rally of May Day, also known as Workers’ Day. In addition to calling for workers rights, the rally turned to a stage to criticize Trump’s decision including his immigration policies. (Photo by Ali Matin / Middle East Images / Middle East Images via AFP) (Photo by ALI MATIN/Middle East Images/AFP via Getty Images)
Silicon Valley’s most rich and powerful technologists are trying to end democracy in favor of a corporate-run authoritarian world order. That’s what Gil Durán warns in his new book “The Nerd Reich: Silicon Valley Fascism and the War on Democracy.”
Marisa sits down with the journalist and former Democratic political advisor to discuss how tech billionaires — including Peter Thiel and Elon Musk — are contributing to the rise of what he dubs “tech fascism,” and what we can do to fight back
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