[INTRODUCTION]
Mr. Ro Khanna, a candidate for the United States House of Representatives in California’s 17th congressional district, contacted Silicon Valley Chinese Association (SVCA) to have some direct dialogue with SVCA members. Mr. Khanna and SVCA agreed to conduct a Questions & Answers session in an online chat room, and that Q&A occurred on August 7, 2014.
Below is the transcript of that Q&A. The transcript has been slightly edited to make it more readable; no substantive content has been modified or deleted. Mr. Khanna has graciously allowed SVCA to publish this transcript.
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Alex Chen 8:05 PM
Welcome @Andy Wong
Alex Chen 8:05 PM
RK’s CM
Alex Chen 8:06 PM
@Kai Zhu – Moderator Thanks for your moderation
Ro Khanna 8:06 PM
Hi everyone. This is Andy Wong, Ro’s Deputy Campaign Manager. Ro is running a little behind, but should be with us shortly. Thank you so much for everyone’s patience.
Liao 8:06 PM
Welcome!
Bin He 8:07 PM
Welcome
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:07 PM
Mr. Khanna has not arrived yet, this is Andy.
8:07 PM
I still remember the precinct walking training you gave us. Appreciate it very much!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:08 PM
@Liao – Change your alias to “Liao – Standby Moderator” please, thank you.
Ro Khanna 8:08 PM
Absolutely. Happy we could facilitate the training!
8:09 PM
Andy, I was there that afternoon too [Smile]
Ro Khanna 8:09 PM
That’s great. Hope the training was informative!
8:09 PM
Yes it was very helpful, thanks again.
Ro Khanna 8:09 PM
And hello again everyone. Thanks again for everyone’s patience as we wait for Ro to join us.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:09 PM
No problem.
Liao – Standby Moderator 8:10 PM
Just changed my alias.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:10 PM
Hello everyone!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:10 PM
We are honored and very pleased to have Mr. Ro Khanna here tonight at SVCA’s WeChat group. It is a terrific opportunity for all of us to have a chance of meeting Ro directly – well, in a Silicon Valley way.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:10 PM
I have already posted the Procedure & Rules for this Q & A session, so I assume you all know them and will follow them.
Ro Khanna 8:10 PM
We’re thrilled to be a part of this. And Ro is here!
Liao – Standby Moderator 8:10 PM
[Clap]
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:11 PM
Welcome, Mr. Khanna!
Ro Khanna 8:10 PM
Hi, glad to join. Sorry I was 10 minutes late. I was coming from an event at the new Levi stadium. Hope we have a lot of 49ers fans online!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:11 PM
No problem, we are glad that you can make it.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:11 PM
Hello everyone!
We are honored and very pleased to have Mr. Ro Khanna here tonight at SVCA’s WeChat group. It is a terrific opportunity for all of us to have a chance of meeting Ro directly – well, in a Silicon Valley way.
Ro Khanna 8:11 PM
Excited to be part of this! Thank you for having me.
Ro Khanna 8:11 PM
It is my honor!!!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:11 PM
Welcome to SVCA’s WeChat group!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:11 PM
I have already posted the Procedure & Rules for this Q & A session, so I assume you all know them and will follow them.
Ro Khanna 8:12 PM
Yes, we are familiar with all of the rules!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:12 PM
While most if not all of you know who Ro is, here is his self-introduction:
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:12 PM
Ro is running for Congress in California’s 17th Congressional District, which encompasses the heart of Silicon Valley. All major newspapers in the Bay Area, including the San Jose Mercury News, San Francisco Chronicle, and Milpitas Post, have endorsed his candidacy. Ro is currently visiting Lecturer in the Department of Economics at Stanford University and an Adjunct Professor at Santa Clara Law School. Prior to returning home to the Bay Area, Ro served for two years in the Obama Administration, where he took a practical, hands-on approach to public service as the Deputy Assistant Secretary at the U.S. Department of Commerce. During his tenure at Commerce, Ro broke new ground when he organized clean technology trade missions and supported the Green Embassy program, which allows American clean technology companies to showcase their products in U.S. embassies overseas. He was also named to the White House Business Council, where he partnered with businesses and labor groups across the country to pursue policies to promote America’s economic growth. Ro’s book on manufacturing, Entrepreneurial Nation: Why Manufacturing is Still Key to America’s Future, has won widespread praise for its strategies for keeping the best companies, jobs, and opportunities in America.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:13 PM
Since Ro has a very tight schedule, we will go straight to questions.
Ro Khanna 8:13 PM
Let’s go!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:13 PM
But before doing that, I want to add that, Ro got his JD from Yale Law School, which is the best of the best in the nation.
Ro Khanna 8:14 PM
That’s very flattering. Thank you
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:14 PM
OK, here comes the first question.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:14 PM
Q1. Do you mind telling us about your upbringing and current family situation?
Ro Khanna 8:15 PM
Certainly. My parents immigrated in the 1960s. My father is a chemical engineer and my mom a substitute school teacher. I went to public school and still am paying off my student loans. I am very close to my family and parents and admire them. My grandfather spent four years in jail fighting for India’s independence. He inspired my interest in public service. I have a long time girlfriend –Ritu Ahuja, and hope to soon have a family of my own!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:16 PM
Thank you, Ro. Maybe you can add an [End] at the end of your answer if you think it is complete?
Ro Khanna 8:16 PM
End.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:16 PM
Thank you.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:16 PM
Q2. Could you tell us when you decided to get a law degree?
Ro Khanna 8:18 PM
I was inspired to go into public service and pursue a legal degree after walking precincts for Barack Obama in his 1996 State Senate campaign in Chicago. I was a student at the University of Chicago at the time, studying economics. He inspired me to care about politics. After that I was really hooked, and applied to law school in my senior year. I always had an interest in public service, but my time at Chicago and experiences solidified that interest. I hope that more Asian Americans go to law school and enter politics, and I will work to help make that happen. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:18 PM
Thank you, Ro. Just a suggestion: Due to the features/limitations of WeChat, please try to type an answer into several shorter sentences and post each once it is typed (that is, not to post a long answer all at once). This way, we can avoid a long silence when you try to frame and type a proper answer.
Ro Khanna 8:19 PM
Great point. End
Ro Khanna 8:19 PM
How is that for brevity 🙂 End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:19 PM
Q3. Could you tell us when and why you decided to run for a public office?
Ro Khanna 8:20 PM
I decided to run when Fremont, where I lived, was drawn into a new Silicon Valley district
Ro Khanna 8:20 PM
I also was teaching in the district at Stanford and Santa Clara
Ro Khanna 8:20 PM
The district is phenomenal and the heart of Silicon Valley and the only Asian majority district in the continental United States.
Ro Khanna 8:20 PM
I felt like I could bring a new vision for economic growth and innovation to Congress representing this area
Ro Khanna 8:21 PM
I also wanted to promote a vision of partnership with China and India and having the U.S. integrate into the global economy instead of engaging in protectionism or xenophobia.
Ro Khanna 8:21 PM
I believe Silicon Valley and this district is the most consequential to represent in the world. End.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:22 PM
Great answer. Thank you.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:22 PM
Q4. Could you please name the top three differences between you and Mr. Honda?
Ro Khanna 8:24 PM
1. I am for entrepreneurs, trade, simplifying regulations, low taxes on middle class families, and promoting economic growth. I teach economics at Stanford. Mike Honda is a nice person but has a very different economic vision. He is a traditional orthodox Democrat who has advocated higher taxes on the middle class and no plans to simplify regulations or help small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Ro Khanna 8:26 PM
2. I am a strong proponent of education reform. I have come out for teacher accountability, having teachers credentialed in math and science, and also getting rid of underperforming teachers. I also have clearly and unequivocally opposed SCA-5 early on, and made it clear that California UC’s should give priority to California students. Mike Honda has orthodox views on education and has not talking about credentialing or accountability. While he did oppose SCA-5, he did so only after the bill was already dead, and his lifetime support of race based affirmative action will make him less likely to fight initiatives like SCA-5 strongly in the future.
Ro Khanna 8:28 PM
3. I have said I will take no junkets, no PAC money, no lobbyists, and believe in really down town halls and being accessible to the community. Mike Honda has taken over 52 special interest trips, has voted to raise his pay 10 times, and has missed over 465 votes. Again, he’s a decent person. I am not questioning his character. But, I don’t think he is up to the job, or effective, and he is emblematic of a culture of dysfunction and privilege in Washington.
Ro Khanna 8:28 PM
End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:28 PM
Thank you very much. I will give people a few seconds to read.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:29 PM
Your keyboard skill is outstanding, by the way.
Ro Khanna 8:29 PM
Haha, thank you. A lot of iPhone texting! End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:30 PM
It is 8:30 pm, but I will ask an easier question before opening the floor.
Ro Khanna 8:30 PM
Sure, I want tough ones too! End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:30 PM
Q5. Most of us are parents – do you have any suggestions on how to raise a child into a brilliant and ambitious person like you?
Ro Khanna 8:30 PM
Well, I am not sure I am the right role model 🙂 End
Ro Khanna 8:31 PM
They can go become techies and make a lot more money and have a lot more success 🙂 End
Ro Khanna 8:31 PM
But, in all seriousness, the biggest thing my parents did was to stress a great education.
Ro Khanna 8:31 PM
I grew up with parents who taught me the times tables at a young age, and always expected excellence
Ro Khanna 8:31 PM
If I am elected to Congress, I will bring that value to our district
Ro Khanna 8:32 PM
I will champion values that expect and encourage all kids to pursue academic excellence and celebrate that
Ro Khanna 8:32 PM
We should be proud of having our kids go to good schools, and do well, and not just embrace mediocrity
Ro Khanna 8:32 PM
This is a high achieving district, and those are the values I will champion in Congress
Ro Khanna 8:32 PM
I think that will help set the example for young kids to also dream big and work hard and excel academically. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:33 PM
Thank you. I still have a lot of pre-submitted questions.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:33 PM
But anyone can ask questions now, just get a number from CH Liao – who is helping me and standing by.
Ro Khanna 8:33 PM
Great
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:33 PM
Anyone who wants to get a number can ask CH here.
Liao – Standby Moderator 8:34 PM
I am ready to hand out numbers.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:34 PM
Or I will continue asking those pre-submitted questions first.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:34 PM
Q6. Can you name the top 10 Silicon Valley high-tech companies (by size) supporting you?
Ro Khanna 8:34 PM
I have the support of many leading executives at these companies
Ro Khanna 8:36 PM
They include Eric Schmidt, Chairman Google, Sheryl Sandberg, COO Facebook, Marissa Mayer, CEO of Yahoo, John Doerr, VC at Kleiner Perkins, Marc Andreessen, Founder of Netscape, Sean Parker, co-Founder Facebook, Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, Steve Luczo, CEO of Seagate, Paul Otellini, Former CEO of Intel,
Ro Khanna 8:36 PM
Also David Goldberg, CEO of Survey Monkey. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:36 PM
Thank you.
8:37 PM
OQ1. Ex-congressman Ernie Kounyu called on tea party express to donate to you. Will you accept tea party money? How will you work with them in congress if elected?
Ro Khanna 8:37 PM
I have not in any way asked the tea party to support the campaign.
Ro Khanna 8:37 PM
End
Ro Khanna 8:37 PM
We accept money only from individuals, and are not asking or associating with outside groups.
Ro Khanna 8:38 PM
But, I will aspire to represent everyone once elected whether they are Democrats, Independents, or Republicans. That is a difference in style from the more ideological Congressman Honda. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:38 PM
Thank you. Any No.2?
8:38 PM
OQ2. Ro, if elected, what is your plan to solve the current border crisis of illegal youth immigrants from Central America? Would you suppport amending Deferred Action for Childhood (DACA) program, and William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008, which, according to some people, contribute to this crisis?
Ro Khanna 8:39 PM
Yes, I do support amending that Act. End
Ro Khanna 8:39 PM
I support President Obama’s approach to solving the crisis. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:39 PM
Thank you. Any No. 3?
8:40 PM
OQ3. What is your immigration policy if elected?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:40 PM
Q7. When President Obama came to the White House, the unemployment rate was high. Clean tech was promised to become a new industry that would generate millions of jobs. The Obama administration put tons of money as loans to support clean-tech companies. Many of them went bankrupt. In your mind, what went wrong here? If you run those programs again, what would you do differently?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:40 PM
Hold on that one for now, CH
Ro Khanna 8:40 PM
Which question?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:40 PM
Mr. Khanna, the current question is Q7 above.
Ro Khanna 8:42 PM
Great. I strongly support the investment in basic research and development for alternative energy in ARPA-E. But, I don’t think the government should be picking winners or losers and giving direct money to companies. They should be investing in fundamental research, and also having tax policies that incentivize innovation. I don’t think government bureaucrats can pick winners and losers in the marketplace.
Ro Khanna 8:42 PM
End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:42 PM
Thank you. Go ahead, CH, for your OQ 3.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:43 PM
OQ 3. What is your immigration policy if elected?
Ro Khanna 8:44 PM
I strongly support immigration reform. I believe we need to prioritize immigration for those who are engineers, scientists or entrepreneurs and expedite their path to citizenship and getting a green card. I also think we need more fairness in our H1-B visa policy. I have come out for increasing the proportion of H1-B visas given to China because right now they are underrepresented.
Ro Khanna 8:45 PM
We need to welcome the best and brightest from around the world to grow our economy. It’s at the heart of how Silicon Valley was founded. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:45 PM
Thank you.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:45 PM
Any OQ4 ?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:46 PM
Q8. Your Linkedin page still shows you are “of counsel” at WSGR, the No. 1 venture-law firm in the U.S. But WSGR is no longer listing your name at its website. What happened? Did you miss all your billable-hour requirements due to your busy campaign?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:46 PM
[Just kidding as to the last question …]
Ro Khanna 8:46 PM
I am on a leave of absence from WSGR!
Ro Khanna 8:46 PM
I was there until January 1 but the firm cannot have me there full time while I am campaigning full time
Ro Khanna 8:46 PM
I hope I won’t go back because I will win the election!
Ro Khanna 8:46 PM
But, if not I would go back and practice
Ro Khanna 8:47 PM
I have great relationships there, did a lot of work, and many at the firm have supported my campaign and are very supportive. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:47 PM
Thank you.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:47 PM
SVCA members – prepare your question well, and post it right after I call a number.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:47 PM
No. 4 go ahead.
8:47 PM
OQ4. How would you interact with CTA in your education reform?
Ro Khanna 8:48 PM
I would include them in the discussion. I am not anti-union like michelle rhee or others
Ro Khanna 8:48 PM
I don’t believe we should privatize public education
Ro Khanna 8:48 PM
But, I would be willing to push them to adopt accountability and reform
Ro Khanna 8:48 PM
I am not just going to go along with the status quo like Honda
Ro Khanna 8:49 PM
The key is a balance. One that respects unions, gives them a seat at the table, yet pushes for accountability and removing bad teachers and reform. I am confident I can strike that balance because I get NO money from any of the special interests. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:49 PM
Thank you. Any OQ No. 5?
8:49 PM
OQ5: What is your comment on DREAM Act?
Ro Khanna 8:49 PM
I am for it. Strongly. End
Ro Khanna 8:50 PM
So is Mike Honda. End
Ro Khanna 8:50 PM
There is no disagreement there. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:50 PM
Thank you. OQ No. 6?
8:50 PM
OQ6. Your primary created certain friction inside Indian American community and you were accused of shady campaign tactics. How are you going to amend the relation with your foes inside your community? I happen to be friend with one of your foes
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:51 PM
Before OQ No. 7, I will ask a pre-submitted question.
Ro Khanna 8:51 PM
We have the overwhelming support of Indian Americans, and I am proud of that. We had no role in recruiting any other candidates, and the papers have overwhelmingly supported us. Nonetheless, I have met with my primary opponents, and indicated I want to build a coalition and work together.
Ro Khanna 8:51 PM
I will humbly work to earn the trust of every person in this district. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:52 PM
Thank you.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:52 PM
Q9. Why do you think some Indian politicians such as Councilmember Ash Kalra do not support you but Honda?
Ro Khanna 8:52 PM
Ash is 110% part of the South Bay Labor machine. He will support candidates of that machine.
Ro Khanna 8:53 PM
I also don’t think someone should support me just because I am Indian American or Asian. Ultimately, those who support me do so because they like my economic and education policies more than Mike Honda’s. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:53 PM
Thank you.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:53 PM
OQ No. 7?
8:53 PM
OQ7. Your opinions about party-line based voting?
Ro Khanna 8:54 PM
I will not be a straight party line vote. Honda has been a party line vote 95% of the time. I will be more independent minded and represent the district more than any party. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:54 PM
Thank you, Ro. Any OQ No. 8?
Liao – Standby Moderator 8:54 PM
Not from my side. Anyone?
8:55 PM
OQ8: Will you endorse any GOP candidate (e.g., candidates against SCA5) this year?
Ro Khanna 8:56 PM
I have appeared at events with Peter Kuo and Chuck Page, and have a good working relationship with them. I endorsed Mayor Esteves, a Republican, for his re-election in Milpitas, and I have received many endorsements from GOP leaders across the district because of my pragmatic stance on the economy, education and SCA-5.
Ro Khanna 8:56 PM
End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:56 PM
Thank you.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:56 PM
Q10. You are having some “negative” campaign now by attacking Honda a lot, such as “Where’s Mike?”, “Mike doesn’t want to debate” etc. We are not impressed with your program platform. Will you change your campaign strategies?
Ro Khanna 8:57 PM
Mike Honda started the negative campaign in the primary
Ro Khanna 8:57 PM
He did 6 negative mailers saying I wanted to outsource jobs to Asia and distorting the truth about my record at Commerce.
Ro Khanna 8:57 PM
We kept it very positive.
Ro Khanna 8:57 PM
We now are just pointing out the facts.
Ro Khanna 8:58 PM
Honda has only passed one bill, and he has one of the worst attendance records in Congress. He also has gone back on his word to debate.
Ro Khanna 8:58 PM
That is why all the newspapers have endorsed our candidacy.
Ro Khanna 8:58 PM
We will continue to point out the facts.
Ro Khanna 8:58 PM
But, also will offer a positive vision.
Ro Khanna 8:59 PM
I will be completely factual in my campaign. I also hope that your audience will make a decision based on the facts. Many of you are engineers and data and fact driven.
Ro Khanna 8:59 PM
End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 8:59 PM
Thank you. Any more open questions?
9:01 PM
OQ9: You are against SCA5, but it is one of the core interest for DEM party. This means you are against the Dem party at this issue. How are you going to gain support from the party?
Ro Khanna 9:02 PM
I have had the courage to go against the party on this unlike Evan Low, Paul Fong, and Mike Honda who all equivocated. The question is whether we will have a Democrat who will reflect the values of this district with or just the party. I will be bold against SCA-5. End.
Ro Khanna 9:03 PM
I also have support from many Dem leaders like Gavin Newsom, Steve Westly, Rod Sinks, Orrin Mahoney, and others.
Ro Khanna 9:03 PM
End.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:02 PM
Thank you, Ro. Any more open question?
9:02 PM
OQ10: What are your thoughts on Rev. Jesse Jackson’s recent push for workplace Affirmative Action in Silicon Valley companies to promote diversity?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:04 PM
Before OQ11, if any, I will ask a question myself.
Ro Khanna 9:04 PM
I believe we need a more diverse workforce, but that should be by providing more skills education, teaching coding in the classroom, and encouraging folks to get technology skills from all backgrounds
Ro Khanna 9:05 PM
I also think we need leadership of these tech companies to have more Asian Americans and Chinese Americans. They should be CEOS and on the Board, not just employees.
Ro Khanna 9:05 PM
End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:05 PM
Thank you, Ro. The following question is from myself.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:05 PM
Q11. In your book, on pages 207-208. You stated: “5. Piracy and forced technology transfers. The United States should take a hard line to prevent any foreign government from subsidizing the illegal copying or reverse engineering of American products.” But as an IP lawyer, you know that “copying a product” is not illegal per se unless doing so infringes some patents. Further, in nearly all jurisdictions in the U.S., trade secret laws do not prohibit reverse-engineering – it is perfectly legal. So why did you say that? Why reverse engineering American products abroad is a problem when doing so in the U.S. is legal?
Ro Khanna 9:07 PM
I think other countries should compete based on innovation and new ideas. I don’t think there should be copying in the U.S. if it comes close to infringing trade secrets. So, in general I think we should respect intellectual property laws everywhere. This is a particular problem in India where there is not good enforcement of laws. I think stronger IP protection worldwide will improve trade.
Ro Khanna 9:08 PM
Does that answer your question?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:08 PM
Thank you, Ro. Kind of, but it is good for tonight.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:09 PM
Any OQ11 ?
Ro Khanna 9:09 PM
Great, happy to have a longer discussion. But, the broader point is I am for a stronger partnership in trade with China and India. I will not be bashing either country or engaging in protectionism. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:10 PM
Great, perhaps I can have a follow-up question as to your last statement?
Ro Khanna 9:10 PM
Yes please
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:10 PM
I am still reading your book. You know it is not easy nowadays for anyone to read any book front to back.
Ro Khanna 9:10 PM
Good!
Ro Khanna 9:10 PM
Thank you
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:11 PM
But I feel that your book is creating an impression on me that you are bashing China, perhaps in a polite way. It is kind of contradicting your last statement.
Ro Khanna 9:12 PM
That’s not my intent at all
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:12 PM
If you go to Amazon, search “China” and “India” respectively in your book, you will see the difference. Do you have any comments on that?
Ro Khanna 9:12 PM
I have written openly about how china should be a strategic partner
Ro Khanna 9:12 PM
I have done three roundtables where I have gone on the record supporting a strong US-China relationship
Ro Khanna 9:13 PM
I was on Chris Hayes MSNBC where I quoted Kissinger view saying that we need to have a strong positive relationship.
Ro Khanna 9:13 PM
I believe that we need to have fair trade and pointed some of those issues in the book. But, longer term that will create a strong relationship with China.
Ro Khanna 9:14 PM
You can rest assured, I believe in having a strategic partnership with China and have said that over and over again in the campaign and to editorial boards. I will be a strong advocate for this
Ro Khanna 9:14 PM
I will stand up to the xenophobia on both the far right and the far left.
Ro Khanna 9:14 PM
End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:14 PM
Thank you very much.
Ro Khanna 9:15 PM
I hope you can help spread my previous answer in the community.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:15 PM
Sure, will try our best.
Ro Khanna 9:15 PM
I will be one of the most passionate and loudest voices for US-China strategic partnership and believe in Kissinger’s vision.
Ro Khanna 9:15 PM
End.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:15 PM
Thank you, from the bottom of my heart.
9:13 PM
OQ12: A follow up on the border crisis. US House of representivetis passed H.R. 5272 and H.R. 5230, which will limit Deferred Action for Childhood (DACA) program, and amend William Wilberforce Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008, but US senate won’t vote on it, and President Obama threaten to veto it even if it passes the senate. Do you support the House’s bills?
Ro Khanna 9:16 PM
I am not for the bills as written. But, let me make a broader point
Ro Khanna 9:17 PM
My parents immigrated here legally. My dad was an engineer
Ro Khanna 9:17 PM
I get that priority needs to be given to those who came here legally and have value to add to our economy.
Ro Khanna 9:17 PM
I will fight to make sure they are not moved to the back of the line and we encourage every immigrant to obey the laws like my parents did. End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:18 PM
Thank you, Ro. Any OQ 13?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:18 PM
Not Ocean’s 13
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:18 PM
Going once.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:18 PM
Any OQ 13?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:18 PM
Going twice
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:19 PM
Any OQ 13?
Ro Khanna 9:19 PM
I have really enjoyed this. And have yet one more meeting!
Ro Khanna 9:19 PM
So, if we are approaching the end, would love 1-2 more questions
Ro Khanna 9:19 PM
This has been great.
Ro Khanna 9:19 PM
Then, should get going to next event 🙂 end
9:19 PM
I have one
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:19 PM
OK, last one. Is it OK with you, Ro?
Ro Khanna 9:20 PM
Yes, lets’ have it. Make it a good and tough one!
9:20 PM
What’s your future plan if you lose this election?
Ro Khanna 9:20 PM
I will win 🙂
Ro Khanna 9:20 PM
With your support!
Ro Khanna 9:20 PM
If SVCA endorses me, and if the Indian American and Chinese American community unite, the sky is the limit!
Ro Khanna 9:21 PM
We need to build a coalition to push for policies on the economy, education, immigration, and job creation that we share. End
9:20 PM
Sorry one more Q
9:20 PM
What kind of action do you think we should take to fight back Jessie Johnson and protect silicon valley?
Ro Khanna 9:22 PM
We should emphasize that Silicon Valley is based on merit. We need to encourage folks to study hard, excel academically and then succeed on merit. The way to put more minorities is to offer more folks opportunity to get the right education and excel.
Ro Khanna 9:22 PM
End
Ro Khanna 9:22 PM
Any last question?
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:22 PM
Great, we all got it.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:22 PM
Thank you.
Ro Khanna 9:22 PM
This has been great
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:22 PM
I guess we should let you take a break.
Ro Khanna 9:22 PM
If I can summarize
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:22 PM
Please
Ro Khanna 9:22 PM
1. I will be the strongest advocate for the Kissinger vision of a China US partnership for world peace that Congress has seen
Ro Khanna 9:23 PM
2. I will be a strong voice against SCA-5 and similar initiatives
Ro Khanna 9:23 PM
3. I will be for economic growth policies, lower taxes on the middle class, and fighting for entrepreneurs.
Ro Khanna 9:24 PM
4. I believe the Indian American and Chinese American communities can unite. I have been working with Don Sun on this. Its bigger than either of us. If we unite, we can help our values create a greater America and a more peaceful and integrated world.
Ro Khanna 9:24 PM
I humbly ask for your support, and involvement in this vision. Not just for this campaign, but for making history over the next decade from this very unique district.
Ro Khanna 9:24 PM
I really am honored to have had the chance to share my philosophy and world view.
Ro Khanna 9:24 PM
End
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:25 PM
That is terrific!
Liao – Standby Moderator 9:25 PM
[Clap]
cheney gao 9:25 PM
Thank you very much, Ro
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:25 PM
Thank you very much, Mr. Khanna for joining us tonight.
yyang 9:25 PM
Thanks, Ro.
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:25 PM
This concludes the Q&A session.
Ro Khanna 9:26 PM
Thank you! Awesome interview. Very fair. Hope this gets out. All my comments are on the record and should be distributed widely. I stand by each for this election and for the rest of my public service career. Good night. Thanks again for the opportunity!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:26 PM
And thanks everyone for asking all those great questions.
Bin He 9:26 PM
Thank you!
Kai Zhu – Moderator 9:27 PM
Good luck with your campaign!
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