Tech Leaders Rally Behind Kamala Harris' Presidential Campaign for Innovation and Change

Venture capitalists are backing Kamala Harris' presidential campaign, prioritizing women's rights, climate change, and a pro-startup stance. A survey indicates 97% of supporters want tech-savvy leaders. Supporters also advocate for more H-1B visas and simpler paths for startups. Trump also garners notable tech industry support.

Venture capitalists are throwing their support behind Kamala Harris' White House campaign, emphasizing priorities like women's reproductive rights, climate change, and a friendlier stance toward startups. According to a survey disclosed to Reuters on Wednesday, about 800 venture capitalists signed an open letter of support, and 225 detailed their reasons for endorsing the Democratic candidate.

Nearly all of the 225 respondents expressed disapproval of the Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, arguing it negatively affects women in the workplace. Leslie Feinzaig, CEO of Graham & Walker, who initiated the pledge, emphasized that these issues are not merely social but also business-related. Supporters view Harris, with her Silicon Valley connections, as a candidate attuned to the tech industry, reminiscing about the Obama administration's favorable approach to technology.

The letter, dubbed 'VCs for Kamala,' includes high-profile names like Reid Hoffman from Greylock and Vinod Khosla from Khosla Ventures. The survey revealed that 97% of respondents advocate for leaders knowledgeable about AI and crypto technologies. Additionally, 94% called for more high-skilled H-1B visas. Harris' campaign has attracted significant funding, including over $12 million raised during a San Francisco fundraiser.

(With inputs from agencies.)