Host of PBS' Balancing Act with John Katko, 4-Term Congressman, 20+ year Federal Organized Crime Prosecutor, ABC News Contributor
John Katko brings a rare blend of law enforcement experience and Congressional leadership to the stage, offering clear, trusted insights on homeland security, cybersecurity, and national security. Known for his honest, level-headed commentary, he is respected across party lines for staying above the political fray. His straightforward and values-driven approach has made him a go-to voice for national news producers—and his show, Balancing Act with John Katko, now airs nationwide on PBS. In a polarized environment, John Katko offers a reasoned, credible perspective that resonates with diverse audiences.
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The cyber threat landscape has never been so dynamic. Our homeland security, national security, economic security, and way of life are threatened in unprecedented ways by highly sophisticated adversaries. Simply being vigilant is no longer enough. Today’s threat environment demands a posture of unwavering resilience. Unfortunately, cyber-attacks are becoming increasingly part of everyday life for the average American. School systems, libraries, small businesses, healthcare and manufacturing—these entities now have to consider the very real threat of ransomware or malware. While even just 10 years ago the conversation was around how to keep bad actors out of networks, now the focus is one how to detect, mitigate, and eliminate a network intrusion before widespread harm is done. Private companies and government agencies must be putting more emphasis and resources into cybersecurity, as the next battlefield will be in cyberspace.
There is a saying, “there is nothing in the middle of the road but yellow stripes and dead armadillos.” Well, there may be armadillos, but there is also John Katko. Having broke with his party for votes that should not have been controversial, Katko is no stranger to navigating his conservative values in the new political reality of today. During his time in Congress, Katko was ranked the most bipartisan member of Congress, reaching across the aisle to have the most bills signed into law as a freshman and later in his tenure earning him the title of one of the most effective Members of Congress. The importance of reasonable political leaders cannot be overstated. In this hyper-charged environment, where each political party has been pulled to the extremes, the American people often feel that nothing can be accomplished anymore. However, there is path forward and Katko has the handbook.
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) presents the greatest 50-year threat to the U.S. homeland. The United States is in a great powers’ competition with China, the likes of which will determine the future of the world as we know it. Due to the significant entanglement of the two countries, the homeland security mission to counter and curb China has never been more important. We know the CCP will stop at nothing as it carries out its mission for global military dominance by 2049. The future of U.S. economic security hinges on the Western world’s synchronized and united front to combat the growing aggression out of China. Katko led the charge within Congress to move the 2021 Winter Olympics out of Beijing, and ultimately called for a U.S. boycott.
Economic security is homeland security. Small and medium-sized businesses represent the most critical segments of our nation’s supply chain and are the very heartbeat of the American economy. At the onset of the pandemic, we witnessed firsthand the breakdown in our supply chain when federal, state, and local entities had to compete with one another for simple personal protective equipment. It was a terrifying glimpse into a future situation that has the potential to be mimicked on a larger, more dangerous scale. Many of our medical and critical technology supply chains are overly beholden to nation-states that don’t share our values. Building domestic resilience in these supply chains is an important homeland security mission.
Hon. John Katko brings a rare blend of legislative leadership, national security expertise, and real-world legal experience to the stage—making him a compelling voice for audiences seeking clarity on today’s most pressing policy and political issues.
From 2015 to 2023, Katko represented New York’s 24th Congressional District—one of the most competitive in the country—earning widespread bipartisan support and repeated reelection victories. Known for his results-driven leadership, he passed 98 bills through the House, with 45 signed into law.
His talent for communicating complex issues has led to a broader platform as well. John is now the host of Balancing Act with John Katko, a nationwide PBS program that reflects his values-driven perspective and ability to find common ground in today’s polarizing political climate.
Katko rose quickly in Congress, becoming a key voice on the House Homeland Security Committee. In 2020, he was appointed Ranking Member, where he led Republican efforts to address border security, enhance cybersecurity defenses, and improve transportation and airport safety. He also chaired the Republican Governance Group, helping advance centrist policy strategies and foster cross-party collaboration.
Recognized as one of the most bipartisan members of Congress by the Lugar Center, Katko is respected across the aisle for his pragmatic, solutions-focused approach. His proven ability to bridge divides and engage national media—and now television audiences—only strengthens his value as a speaker for public forums and live events.
Before Congress, Katko served nearly two decades as a federal prosecutor with the U.S. Department of Justice, handling high-stakes cases involving organized crime, political corruption, drug and human trafficking, and murder. He also held roles with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and in private antitrust and commercial litigation.
With firsthand insight from the front lines of law enforcement, policy-making, and national media, John Katko delivers keynote presentations that are timely, balanced, and packed with practical takeaways—perfect for audiences navigating today’s dynamic political, legal, and security landscapes.
Our organization had the pleasure of having John Katko join us as a speaker at our recent 10th anniversary celebration. Former Congressman Katko did a tremendous job with his remarks and in a dynamic Q&A session with U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin. John offered a rare blend of candid, no-nonsense insight about politics with a disarming sense of humor. John illuminated the serious problems confronting our nation without taking himself too seriously. Many audience members told me how much they enjoyed his commentary and presence at the event. I would strongly recommend John to anyone looking for a speaker who has walked to talk in public service and speaks compellingly about his experiences.
Director, Carl Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy
The audience engagement was remarkable. Mr. Katko held the room with poise, fielded questions with thoughtful responses, and left attendees energized and ready to take action. In a time when political discourse can often feel divisive or hollow, he reminded us of the power of informed, passionate leadership. I would highly recommend John Katko for future events and look forward to hearing him speak again.
SVP Global Public Policy, American Resort Development Association
