To the outside observer, the differences between Silicon Valley and Washington, D.C., could not be starker. One embraces rapid innovation and risk-taking, while the other seems slow-moving and stuck on the same talking points, year after year. But as tech leaders begin to bring their issues and priorities—not to mention their political clout and dollars—to Washington, D.C., the question becomes: Who will change who first?

Join Future Tense in Washington, D.C., at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 24, for a happy hour event at The Loft at 600 F with Todd Schulte, executive director of FWD.us, an organization formed by leaders in the tech community to promote polices that will strengthen the knowledge economy. While you enjoy drinks and snacks, Schulte and Brian Fung, a technology reporter at the Washington Post, will discuss the growing political power of Silicon Valley in Washington, D.C., and what we can expect from this clash of cultures.

If you'd like to attend, please email futuretensedc@gmail.com with your name and any affiliation you'd like to mention. You can RSVP for yourself and one guest. Unfortunately, only a limited number of tickets are available.

Future Tense regularly hosts happy hours and other evening events—like our "My Favorite Movie" series, in which leaders in technology and science host a screening of their favorite film with tech and science themes. So keep an eye on the Future Tense blog and Twitter feed to learn about our all our upcoming events.