July 27: This week in AI federal policy
DC/ai Decoded: A weekly newsletter on developments in artificial intelligence, quantum, and data federal policy
This week decoded
Shaping the week in AI federal policy, the House passed the FY2027 National Defense Authorization Act carrying several major semiconductor and AI export control bills, including the AI Overwatch Act, MATCH Act, and Chip Security Act.
Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD) hosted bipartisan closed-door panels on AI regulation for his Senate colleagues, with participation from Senate leadership and Administration officials, while also floating the idea of an NDAA-style approach to AI legislation.
Senate Commerce Chair Ted Cruz (R-TX) has continued to signal interest in scheduling a markup of several AI bills before the August recess, though no date has been set.
As usual, a multitude of AI-focused bills were introduced last week, including a comprehensive package of bills in the Senate and a bill in the House creating a federal AI kill switch, in which the Department of Homeland Security would have the authority to shut down or throttle risky AI models. Reps. Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Lori Trahan (D-MA) unveiled the FRONTIER Act to establish a national, risk-based framework governing AI model development and deployment.
On the regulatory front, the White House debated Chinese AI firm Moonshot AI’s alleged theft of American intellectual property to create its low-cost Kimi K3 model, while the Trump administration considered cutting off access to Chinese open-weight AI models.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has reportedly drafted a plan for a FINRA-style, industry-funded self-regulatory organization to oversee frontier AI models, now under White House review.
DC/ai Decoded will return with Congress in September. Have a great August!
Read more below
Congress
Hearings
Last week
On July 20, the House Energy and Commerce Committee held a markup of numerous bills, including the “Protecting Families from AI Data Center Energy Costs Act.”
On July 21, the House Administration Committee held a hearing on “Modernizing Public Access to Legislative Data and Information.”
On July 21, the House Education and Workforce Committee held a markup of multiple bills, including the “K-12 AI Literacy and Readiness Act of 2026.”
On July 22, the House Science, Space and Technology Committee held a hearing on “Unleashing the Golden Age of Science: Examining the Priorities of the FY2027 Research and Technology Enterprise.”
On July 22, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing on “Legislative Proposals to Strengthen Consumer Protection in a Changing Marketplace.”
On July 24, the House Education and Workforce Committee held a field hearing on “Building an AI-Ready America: How AI Is Creating Opportunities Across America’s Workforce.”
This week
On July 29, the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Employment and Workplace Safety Subcommittee holds a hearing on “The Impact of AI on the Workforce.”
On July 29, the Senate Special Committee on Aging holds a hearing on “The AI Deception Machine: Deepfakes, Chatbots, and the New Frontier of Senior Fraud.”
On July 30, the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Telecommunications and Media Subcommittee holds a hearing on “Intelligent Networks: Powering Artificial Intelligence and Transforming Communications.”
Legislation
The House passed the FY2027 National Defense Authorization Act carrying three major semiconductor and AI export control bills, the AI Overwatch Act, MATCH Act, and Chip Security Act.
Reps. Jay Obernolte (R-CA) and Lori Trahan (D-MA), with Reps. Scott Franklin (R-FL), Scott Peters (D-CA), Erin Houchin (R-IN), and Suhas Subramanyan (D-VA), introduced the Frontier Risk Oversight, National Transparency, Independent Evaluation, and Reporting (FRONTIER) Act, to establish a national, risk-based framework governing the development and deployment of the most advanced artificial intelligence models. The bill is a revised version developed as part of the broader Great American AI Act framework. (Press release)
Reps. Ted Lieu (D-CA) and Nathaniel Moran (R-Texas) introduced the AI Kill Switch Act to require developers of the most powerful AI systems to maintain the technical capability to throttle, suspend, or shut them down and authorize the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to order a slow down or shutdown of an AI system that can cause catastrophic harm. (Press release)
Reps. Laurel Lee (R-FL), Valerie Foushee (D-NC) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) introduced the Stealth Bot Prohibition Act to establish transparency standards for automated web crawlers and crack down on deceptive bots that conceal their identity while scraping online content. (Press release)
Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT) introduced legislation to require the Director of the National Institute of Standards and Technology to establish a working group to facilitate coordination among relevant stakeholders regarding compound risks relating to artificial intelligence. (Text)
Sens. Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE) and Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Reps. Valerie Foushee (D-NC) and Zach Nunn (R-IA) introduced the bipartisan Expanding AI Voices Act to codify and expand the National Science Foundation’s ExpandAI program to help more institutions build AI research capacity. (Press release)
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) released Framework for America’s AI Future a comprehensive legislative agenda including the Data Center Tax Accountability and Disclosure Act, Artificial Intelligence Access, Gatekeeper Exchange, and Nondiscriminatory Transfer Act (AI AGENT Act), Safeguarding Against Fabricated Exploitation Through Artificial Intelligence (SAFE AI) Act, Financial Artificial Intelligence Risk Reduction Act, National Workforce Transition Fund, Promoting High-skilled Doctoral (PHD) Talent Act, Investing in American Workers Act, and the Secure AI Development Act. (Framework)
Reps. Joe Morelle (D-NY), Rick Larsen, (D-WA), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Norma Torres (D-CA), and Julie Johnson (D-TX) introduced a bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to provide further transparency for the use of content that is substantially generated by artificial intelligence in political advertisements by requiring such advertisements to include a statement within the contents of the advertisements if generative AI was used to generate any image, audio, or video footage in the advertisements. (Text)
Rep. Mike Haridopolous (R-FL) introduced a bill to enable the Department of Labor to promote the necessity of artificial intelligence to safeguard the welfare and job security of apprentices. (Text)
Reps. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) introduced a bill to prohibit Artificial Intelligence Data Centers on Federal land. (Text)
Rep. Bob Latta (R-OH) introduced a bill to establish the applicability of antitrust laws to the sharing of artificial intelligence frontier model risks. (Text)
Sens. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) and Jim Justice (R-WV) introduced the Senior Chatbot Protection Act to keep older Americans safe by requiring AI chatbot and voice assistant companies to provide clear disclosures, safeguard sensitive conversations, and end deceptive design practices in their products. (Text)
Sens. Adam Schiff (D-CA) and Jim Banks (R-IN), and Reps. Bob Latta (R-OH) and George Whitesides (D-CA) introduced the Collaboration on Adversarial Threats and Security Risks (CATS) Act to allow for increased information sharing between industry and stakeholder groups to share information about AI security threats and coordinate their responses with other model developers, and protection against anti-competitive behavior. (Press release)
Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act to authorize the President to issue commissions to private entities for conducting cyber operations against designated foreign cyberthreats, such as ransomware attacks and financial fraud. Operations include intelligence gathering, asset seizure, and disruption of malicious infrastructure. (Text)
Correspondence
Rep. Lance Gooden (R-TX) sent a letter to Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche urging the Department of Justice to investigate foreign interference in United States artificial intelligence policy. (Letter)
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer raising concerns that Big Tech trade associations may be trying to use the USMCA to prevent the U.S., Mexico, and Canada from developing Artificial Intelligence standards and limiting accountability. (Letter)
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) sent a letter to Jeffrey Kessler, Under Secretary for Industry and Security at the Department of Commerce, invoking the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (ECRA) to require the production of documents and information surrounding loopholes in U.S. export controls on advanced semiconductors that were created by the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) attempted rescission of the Biden Administration’s AI Diffusion Rule. (Letter)
Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-GA) sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin calling for stronger protections for local communities impacted by new data center expansion-related strains on local water supplies. (Letter)
Trump Administration
White House
President Trump signed an Executive Order entitled “Securing America’s Defense Supply Chains and Ensuring Domestic Acquisition of Critical Materials” to authorize the Pentagon to use artificial intelligence capabilities to map vulnerabilities in the department’s supply chains and restrict the use of waivers for the acquisition of covered materials under 10 U.S.C. 4872. (Executive Order)
Assistant to the President and Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) Michael Kratsios published a report to President Trump entitled Science: A New Golden Age, on recommendations to government, industry, academia, and philanthropy on strengthening American research and development in emerging technologies. (Report)
Kratsios and Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Russ Vought jointly issued a White House Fiscal Year 2028 R&D Priorities Memorandum to Federal departments and agencies includes specific directives to implement the recommendations laid out in Science: A New Golden Age. (Memorandum)
Commerce Department
The UK Artificial Intelligence Security Institute (UK AISI) and the U.S. Center for AI Standards and Innovation (CAISI) conducted a joint evaluation of Moonshot AI’s latest model, Kimi K3, finding it “performs significantly below the most recent frontier cyber-capable models” but “performs above GLM-5.2.” (Assessment)
Center for AI Standards and Innovation Director Chris Fall, the top Trump administration AI safety official, resigned after three months in the role. (Axios)
Government Accountability Office (GAO)
GAO published a report entitled, “Technology Modernization Fund: Small Savings Achieved So Far, but Substantial Future Savings Expected” (Report)
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
IRS Chief Executive Frank Bisignano has been holding weekly meetings with top IRS executives officers and advisers in recent to brainstorm ways to use AI to close the tax gap, deter fraud, and improve taxpayer service. (Politico)
Noteworthy Quotes and Events
ADMINISTRATION
White House
White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Director Michael Kratsios said, “Chinese startup Moonshot AI used a large-scale attack on Anthropic’s advanced artificial intelligence model Fable to develop its newest model, Kimi K3, using a sophisticated internal platform to perform large-scale distillation attacks on U.S. models.” (Politico)
Kratsios posted “We have information that Moonshot AI distilled Anthropic’s Fable for the development of its K3 model. To do this they developed a sophisticated internal platform to conduct large scale distillation against U.S. models, allowing them to quickly switch between multiple methods of access to avoid detection. Moonshot AI has also acquired GB300-equipped servers and has accessed GB300s in Thailand, likely to train its AI models. The United States strongly supports the free and fair development of AI, including a thriving competitive ecosystem that spans frontier models, specialized systems, open-source frameworks, and open-weight models. Legitimate AI distillation used to create smaller, more efficient models plays a vital role in this open innovation ecosystem. However, large-scale, covert industrial distillation aimed at stealing proprietary U.S. technology and undermining American research is unacceptable.”
The White House posted “The U.S. is by far the leader in the global AI race. With the Ratepayer Protection Pledge, this doesn’t equal increased utility costs for American communities. President Trump is taking action to ensure data center infrastructure price hikes DO NOT affect American consumers.”
As hundreds more companies reportedly signed President Trump’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge for limiting electricity price increases on homeowners among data center development, Trump said in remarks, “We know that the data centers and AI are dramatically increasing the demand for electricity. It’s only fair that the cost of building the new infrastructure required to meet this demand should be borne by the corporations themselves, not by the American consumers and the American patriots.” (Politico)
Department of Energy (DOE)
DOE Secretary Chris Wright said, “That’s what drives up electricity prices, and they want to blame something else for that. Of course, they’re going to double down on stupid and end [up] with even greater increases in electricity [prices].” (Politico)
Treasury Department
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent posted “We support open source AI and the innovation it unlocks. But open source is not open season on American IP. When PRC firms conduct covert industrial-scale distillation attacks that cross the line into IP theft, sanctions and entity list designations will be on the table.”
On whether the administration would investigate whether Chinese AI companies have improperly used American models to build their own systems, Scott Bessent said, “We have the ability to sanction them.” (Politico)
Bessent posted “We support open-source AI and the innovation it unlocks. But open source is not open season on American IP. When PRC firms conduct covert, industrial-scale distillation attacks that cross the line into IP theft, sanctions and Entity List designations will be on the table.”
Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
On being tasked to use AI to close the tax gap, an IRS official said, “We’ve been told to apply AI to solve the problems, but it’s unclear what problems and who determines which ones to solve since we can’t do it all.” (Politico)
Commerce Department
Secretary Howard Lutnick posted “CAISI’s latest report shows that Kimi K3 remains behind America’s leading frontier AI models. The United States continues to lead in frontier AI because we’re home to the greatest innovators and technologists the world has ever seen.”
CONGRESS
On the FRONTIER Act changes, Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA) said, “You’ll see that the preemption is substantially narrowed, but also deepened because we’re eliminating the sunset, which caused a lot of consternation on our side of the aisle.” (Politico)
Obernolte posted “Artificial intelligence is moving rapidly, and our regulatory framework must keep pace. Today I introduced the bipartisan FRONTIER Act with RepLoriTrahan to establish clear national rules of the road for the largest AI developers, including transparency, independent evaluations and reporting of serious incidents. This legislation builds on our Great American AI Act framework to protect Americans from catastrophic risks and ensure the United States remains the global leader in AI.”
On the FRONTIER Act providing new authority to the Commerce Department, Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA) said, “There are likely a lot of folks who think that this should maybe go into the intelligence community… the point here is to have transparency.” (Punchbowl)
Trahan posted “Last week a powerful AI model broke out of a sealed testing environment, got onto the open internet, and hacked into another company’s live systems. All on its own. Right now, there’s no law on the books to know when that could happen or require companies to disclose when it does. My bipartisan FRONTIER Act will change that.”
On the use of AI agents throughout the economy, Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) said, “I’ve never seen anything like this. If Congress takes its normal path and studies it for two years, it’s going to be game over. There won’t be consumer protections. It’ll already be deeply embedded into commerce. It’ll be deeply embedded into our systems.” (Politico)
On adopting an NDAA-style approach to AI legislation, Sen. Mike Rounds (R-SD) said, “We start out with what the armed services need. Then we allow other people to add things on as long as it adds to the number of votes… You could start out with an AI product coming out of Armed Services, or perhaps out of Commerce or out of Judiciary, then allow other committees to add on their bipartisan effort.” (Punchbowl)
On hosting a bipartisan forum with Senate leadership and Administration officials on AI regulation, Rounds said, “The idea here was to highlight the fact that, within the Senate, on a bipartisan basis, we have a real interest in moving forward on lots of different areas of AI development. It is imperative… To have that commitment from both leaders at a time like this in which there is so much stalemate says that this might be an area that we could come together.” (Punchbowl)
On data centers, Rounds said, “I’m a firm believer that data centers should go where they are welcome.” (Punchbowl)
At a House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence hearing to review the 9/11 Commission findings, Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) said, “The attacks on 9/11 took years of planning, training camps, and dozens of people. AI is collapsing all of that, letting a small cell or a hostile government move at machine speed. We must defend our grid, water systems, and ports from cyberattack, counter foreign disinformation online, and make sure America — not Beijing — sets the rules for this critical technology.” (Press release)
On the Ratepayer Pledge expansion, Sen. Roger Marshall (R-MS) released a statement saying, “The Ratepayer Protection Pledge Resolution affirms a basic idea: that Kansans shouldn’t have to pay higher utility bills so that big tech companies can power their data centers,” said Senator Marshall. “I’ve heard from Kansans who are concerned that infrastructure costs for data centers could be pushed onto households, small businesses, schools, hospitals, and farms across the state. Kansans work hard for their money, and they should not need to worry that their utility rates will rise thanks to the growth of data centers.” (Press release)
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) delivered floor remarks, saying, “People, especially their elected representatives, are not paying attention, and the results could be catastrophic. Mr. President, this time we’re not talking about a fictional comet. What we are talking about is artificial intelligence, which will almost certainly be the most transformational technology in the history of humanity. It will profoundly impact the life of every man, woman, and child in our country. The scale, scope, and speed of this transformation will be unprecedented. Nearly every day, there is a new story about how AI is already transforming the world, from our economy, to its impact on our kids, to our privacy rights, to our political institutions, to the existential threat that it poses to the entire world. And so, Mr. President, let us take a deep breath. When we think about AI, the first question that we have to ask ourselves is a pretty simple one. Who is pushing this revolutionary transformation of society? Who is going to benefit from it? And who is going to get hurt by it? And the answers to those questions are not complicated. At a time in American history when we have more income and wealth inequality than we have ever had before, the AI revolution is being pushed by the very wealthiest people in our country, including Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, Peter Thiel, and Larry Ellison. And why are these multi-billionaires investing many hundreds of billions of dollars into AI and robotics? Is it because they want to improve human life? Is it because they want to address the economic struggles facing the 60% of our people who are living paycheck to paycheck, Americans who are struggling to pay for groceries, health care, housing, and education? Is it because they want to make sure that all Americans have access to health care as a human right, and that we successfully address the crises we face in housing, education, and so many other areas? Is that why these multi-billionaires are pushing this revolution? Maybe, but I doubt it. I think the answer is quite obvious, and everybody in America knows it. These multibillionaires are investing in AI and robotics because they want to become even wealthier and even more powerful than they are today. That is what is motivating these investments.”
Sen. Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) posted “This week I spoke at Semafor’s World of Work about the future of work and how we ensure innovation creates opportunity for everyone. From AI to digital assets, we must embrace new technologies while protecting workers, expanding pathways to wealth, and keeping America competitive.”
Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA) posted “Scammers, now with the help of AI, continue to target so many folks across Washington state and our country. The FTC protects American consumers, and should remain reliable and bipartisan – especially as the Trump Administration influences regulatory agencies. We need to make sure all Americans are protected from new kinds of fraud.”
Rep. Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) posted “Glad to see that the Naval Postgraduate School is now home to the U.S. military’s first NVIDIA DGX GB300 AI supercomputer. This cutting-edge capability will empower our service members to harness AI for numerous challenges, from cybersecurity to disaster response. Investments in AI are critical to maintaining America’s technological edge and ensuring our men and women in uniform have the capabilities they need to best serve our country.”
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) posted “Trump’s director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy came to the Science Committee and announced that the administration is shifting millions of dollars to “The Genesis Mission,” which Trump created by Executive Order with the goal of transforming research with AI. At the same time, they are taking funding from our science agencies, including NSF, NIH, and NOAA. This is extremely concerning; science agencies do basic research and fund research at universities across the country. Federally-funded research helped to build the internet, GPS, and the vaccines that ended a pandemic. In Trump’s “golden age of science,” partisan officials will make decisions about who gets funding. What could go wrong?”
House Homeland GOP posted “This week, HomelandGOP & ChinaSelect Members participated in a bipartisan war game exercise, led by RepMcCaul, to examine AI-enabled cyber threats, critical infrastructure resilience, and the homeland security implications of the PRC obtaining Mythos-level AI capabilities.”
Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) posted “With the release of my AI Accountability Agenda, I am making a promise to families across America: I will fight to take back power from Big Tech and put it into the hands of the American people. AI must stand for Accountability and Inclusion, not Abuse and Injury.”
House Committee on Education & Workforce posted “The future of AI in health care should mean more opportunities for American workers—not fewer jobs. RepRickAllen asked Dr. Talbert how the adoption of AI in health care could create new roles, expand career opportunities, and build a workforce equipped to use these emerging technologies.”
Rep. Delia Ramirez (D-IL) posted “As AI continues to be recklessly accelerated by big tech, we are witnessing how dangerously powerful it can be without guardrails, oversight, or accountability. AI poses real risks to infrastructure, journalists, advocates, professors, lawyers, and students. That’s why Congressional action to ensure the people have oversight and to regulate AI is so essential to protecting our privacy, civil liberties, and democratic institutions.”
House Committee on Education & Workforce posted “RepRickAllen asked Dr. Talbert how AI can reduce administrative burdens for doctors and health care workers. Used responsibly, AI can reduce burnout and help doctors better serve their patients.”
Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) posted “The Trump administration is using AI to deny healthcare to seniors on Medicare. Here’s everything you need to know about his destructive scheme to cut care:”
Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX) posted “Huge congratulations to UTArlington on being selected by ENERGY for this prestigious national research initiative. This groundbreaking work will strengthen AI security, protect our nation’s critical scientific infrastructure, and reinforce America’s leadership in innovation and research. It is a great honor to have this innovation right at home.”
Rep. Judy Chu (D-CA) posted “This week, I met with NSAIofficial to discuss how Congress can support musicians and other artists, including by protecting their work in the age of AI and passing my bipartisan bill to restore artists’ ability to deduct their everyday business expenses. And, thank you to Lee Thomas Miller, a Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer, for giving us a wonderful performance of two of your original songs!”
Rep. André Carson (D-IN) posted “As AI plays a growing role in our national defense, Americans deserve transparency and accountability. This past week, the House passed my amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act requiring public reports on how the military is using AI and what safeguards are in place.”
Sen. Mark Kelly (D-AZ) posted “Seniors deserve to know when they’re talking to an AI chatbot instead of a real person. Without that transparency, they’re more vulnerable to scams and manipulation. That’s why I’m introducing a bill that requires companies to disclose when AI is used. AI has got to work for older Americans, not against them.”
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) posted “AI super PACs, funded by Big Tech oligarchs, are spending tens of millions to buy our elections. Will my colleagues in Congress have the guts to stand up to them and ensure this transformational technology works for all of us, and not just make a few billionaires even richer?”
Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC) posted “Radical anti-gun activists wanted banks and credit card companies to help build a backdoor registry of law-abiding gun owners. That is a violation of your privacy and your Second Amendment rights. I’m proud the House passed my bill, the Protecting Privacy in Purchases Act, to put a stop to it.”
Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) posted “America’s AI industry MUST coordinate with American cybersecurity partners to ensure our models and capabilities are not sabotaged by foreign actors. If Chinese AI capabilities surpass ours, we become beholden to them.”
Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL) posted “Join my office tomorrow for my privacy fair event in Matteson. We will be providing onsite document shredding and identity theft prevention resources.”
Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-NC) posted “The AI race, the manufacturing resurgence, and America’s energy future all run through the electric grid. To meet that challenge, I introduced the Lowering Energy Costs through Grid Modernization Act to expand grid capacity, strengthen reliability, and lower energy costs using the infrastructure we already have.”
Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA) posted “No better place to hold this hearing than Augusta, Georgia. If the United States intends to win the AI race, we must invest in the infrastructure, workforce, and innovation needed to maintain our competitive edge.”
House Committee on Education & Workforce posted “Chairman RepRickAllen of the Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions delivered the following opening statement during today’s field hearing titled, “Building an AI-Ready America: How AI Is Creating Opportunities Across America’s Workforce.”
Rep. Brittany Pettersen (D-CO) posted “Big tech shouldn’t be allowed to use your data to make you pay more. I signed on to RepCasar and RepRashida’s Stop AI Price Gouging and Wage Fixing Act that would ban companies from looking at your browsing history, location, or demographics to charge you more or pay you less. You deserve fair prices – not more corporate tracking and price gouging.”
Rep. Scott Franklin (R-FL) posted “As a cosponsor of the bipartisan FRONTIER Act, I’m working with JayObernolte to ensure our regulatory framework keeps pace with sophisticated frontier AI models while fostering American innovation. The bill takes a targeted approach by focusing oversight on the most advanced frontier AI model developers while allowing startups and smaller innovators to build new technologies instead of navigating unnecessary federal red tape.”
Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) posted “It was a pleasure to meet with NSAIofficial and discuss the importance of protecting songwriters and creators in the age of AI. My NO FAKES Act has never been more important, and we have a duty to protect ALL Americans, especially members of the creative community, from deepfakes.”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) posted “AI companies are recklessly conducting a massive public experiment with no regard for our safety. It is not enough that these companies are liable for the damage that their AI Frankensteins cause. We need to make it clear that these alarming AI breaches are illegal and authorize enforcers to immediately shut down out-of-control AI at the first sign of danger.”
Energy and Commerce Committee posted “It is critical that America remains the global leader in the AI race, and anti-American interests are doing everything they can to stop us. A CCP-linked, Marxist network is now working to block American AI infrastructure, hurting local communities and giving our adversaries a leg up.”
Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) posted “TSMC Arizona is projected to create ~80,000 jobs over the next five years, positioning our state to produce 20% of the world’s most advanced semiconductors, the critical chips powering modern AI. These investments are transforming Arizona’s Eighth Congressional District into the ‘Silicon Desert.’”
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) posted “We’re already starting to see concerning signs about AI displacing entry-level jobs… and I’m worried things could get worse. This week, I introduced even more legislation to help us protect jobs and get ready for the massive changes to our economy. We need to pass it ASAP.”
Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) posted “Our residents tell me loud & clear: AI data centers are not welcome. They pollute our environment & raise our bills–all to make the rich richer. I introduced the No AI Data Centers on Federal Lands Act to stop this AI-addicted President from sacrificing our lands to Big Tech.”
Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA) posted “The next breakthrough for Iowa agriculture is already being built in a lab in Ames. The problem is getting it out of the lab and into the cab. A new report found three out of four farmers don’t use AI yet, most because no one’s shown them what it’s actually for. Our bipartisan FARM AI Act closes that gap with research, hands-on training, and Extension support.”
Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-NC) posted “I met with BerndLange, BrandoBenifei, KVanBrempt, SchaldemoseMEP and LinaGalvezMunoz of the European Parliament to discuss AI and digital policy efforts. As AI continues to develop, we must work hand-in-hand with our allies to ensure this technology is not being developed in a manner that harms working people.”
Rep. Keith Self (R-TX) posted “FISA. Flock cameras. Kill switches. Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs). If Congress fails to address these abuses, Americans will no longer enjoy any form of privacy. The Fourth Amendment is NOT optional. Dismantle the surveillance state.”
Energy and Commerce Committee posted “The United States already produces massive amounts of electricity, but the AI frontier is rapidly increasing demand. That’s why POTUS introduced the Ratepayer Protection Pledge, to ensure data centers — not hardworking families — are the ones paying for new energy infrastructure.”
Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA) posted “As AI systems grow more capable, Americans deserve confidence that the most powerful models are being developed responsibly. I’m introducing the FRONTIER Act with JayObernolte to ensure commonsense transparency and independent oversight for the largest AI developers while giving them a single, clear national standard to build on.”
Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) posted “We already banned adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from our weapons labs. Why would we open the doors to our national science labs doing critical AI and quantum research? I introduced an amendment into this year’s NDAA alongside AustinScottGA08 to extend those same protections to America’s non-public labs & close that loophole ASAP.”
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) posted “The film Don’t Look Up told the story of scientists warning the world about a comet heading toward Earth. People ignored the warnings. The planet was destroyed. That was fiction. Artificial intelligence is not. We cannot afford to ignore the warnings.”
Sen. Adam Schiff (D-CA) posted “We cannot allow China, or any foreign adversary, to steal American AI advancements and then weaponize those advances to undermine our own national security. SenatorBanks, boblatta, Rep_Whitesides, and I have partnered on a new effort to protect against AI distillation attacks and other security risks by allowing increased information-sharing among U.S. AI labs to counter the threat of foreign theft.”
Rep. Ted Lieu (D-CA) posted “While powerful AI systems have many potential benefits, they can also go rogue, behave in extremely dangerous ways, or even resist human intervention. We need to keep human control by ensuring AI systems can be completely shut down if necessary.”
Rep. Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-Northern Mariana Islands) posted “Artificial intelligence is transforming the way businesses operate, create jobs, and compete. During the House Small Business Committee hearing, I questioned witnesses on how Congress can better prepare our workforce and ensure small businesses in the Northern Mariana Islands have the tools they need to embrace emerging technologies. Innovation should create opportunities for every community, including ours. Our office remains committed to advancing policies that help CNMI small businesses adapt, grow, and compete while preparing our workforce for the jobs of tomorrow. Together, we can ensure the Marianas are ready for the future.”
Rep. Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-Northern Mariana Islands) posted “Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how businesses compete, innovate, and grow. During the House Small Business Committee hearing, AI on Main Street: How AI is Shaping the Future of Small Business, I questioned witnesses on how Congress can help ensure small businesses and workers in the Northern Mariana Islands are prepared for this evolving landscape. Our office remains committed to advancing policies that expand opportunities for CNMI entrepreneurs, strengthen our workforce, and ensure our islands are not left behind as new technologies shape the future of the American economy.”
Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) posted “’X’ is using its rebrand to try to avoid FTC privacy requirements. We all see this for what it is: Elon Musk—the richest man in the world—asking for a pass from Trump’s FTC. Unacceptable. The FTC must reject this petition.”
Rep. Andy Ogles (R-TN) posted “OpenAI’s reported autonomous AI cyber incident should be a wake-up call. As Chairman of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Protection, I’m calling for better coordination between Congress, my Subcommittee, federal agencies, and the companies developing these powerful AI systems. If we do this well, we will SUPERCHARGE American AI dominance.”
House Foreign Affairs Committee Majority posted “China is illegally smuggling, distilling, and remote accessing American technology to lie, cheat, and steal its way to winning the AI Arms Race. Congress and the Trump Administration are working together to defeat the CCP. We need to pass the Chip Security Act, the Remote Access Security, and the Deterring American AI Model Theft Act now!”
House Science Committee posted “How do we protect American technology while maintaining an open innovation ecosystem? RepVanEpps asked Director Kratsios how OSTP is working to safeguard U.S. intellectual property and respond to the growing threat posed by Chinese open-source AI models.”
Sen. Jim Risch (R-ID) posted “Our nation’s demand for energy is growing, and nuclear energy is the answer. Today’s investment will further INL’s work using AI to deploy nuclear energy faster and safer and secure American dominance. Congratulations to the team at INL!”
Rep. Russ Fulcher (R-ID) posted “The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) is Congress’s primary authorization bill for national defense. The Fiscal Year 2027 package reinforces America’s readiness to counter new and emerging threats by accelerating U.S. capabilities in quantum computing and hypersonic systems, bolstering domestic supply chains for critical materials, and prioritizing the maintenance of fully stocked warfighting reserves. I voted yes.”
Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR) posted “AI is reshaping how we learn, teach, and work. But just putting AI tools in schools won’t address the real challenges of AI; we need safeguards and a comprehensive strategy. I’m leading legislation to coordinate efforts across federal agencies, support educators with real training and protect students from AI risks. Let’s shape technology, not let it shape us.”
Rep. Rob Menendez (D-NJ) posted “ICE sharing the sensitive data of millions of Medicaid recipients (data they should never have had in the first place) with Palantir is a massive privacy breach. Congress must act now to put up strict guardrails to stop our data from being weaponized further.”
Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) posted “AI can now create convincing fake images, audio, and video in seconds and it’s already been used to impersonate officials and mislead the public. We need to act now to stay ahead of these threats—before they’re used to undermine our democracy.”
Rep. Jay Obernolte (R-CA) posted “As America builds data centers to remain the global leader in AI, that growth cannot be allowed to raise electricity bills for American families. I spoke in support of the Ratepayer Protection Act, which ensures the cost of powering new data centers is not passed on to residential ratepayers.”
Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY) posted “We know this is not the first case of an AI model developing capabilities that have exceeded limits assumed by its creators. Big Tech has established a dangerous status quo where their genie keeps trying to force its way out of the bottle, and, as long as developers lack complete confidence in their absolute control over their models, then it’s clear a human being must remain in the loop. Grave consequences were escaped this time. If sufficient guardrails are not put and kept in place, there is no telling if they will be again.”
Rep. André Carson (D-IN) posted “Yesterday, the House passed my ACLU-endorsed amendment requiring public reports on how the military uses AI. Weapons of war shouldn’t be handed to algorithms without human judgment and strong safeguards.”
Sen. Tom Cotton (R-AR) posted “Arkansans don’t want to pay more for AI data centers. But they also know we need them to beat China, cure cancer, and any number of other things. I’m working with the Trump administration to keep America the AI leader of the world while protecting our taxpayers.”
Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-TN) posted “Foreign-based efforts against U.S. artificial intelligence resources threaten our economic interests and national security. My legislation, the BLADE Act, will expose, punish, and prevent foreign entities that conduct hostile distillation campaigns. America will not tolerate malign actors who seek to subvert our leadership and innovation.”
Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA) posted “America cannot dominate tomorrow’s battlefield with yesterday’s technology. The FY27 NDAA invests in hypersonics, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, autonomous systems, directed energy, and space-based capabilities to keep our military ahead of every adversary.”
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) posted “Big Tech companies are now pushing humanoid robots to replace teachers. Do we really want AI robots teaching our children? Maybe I’m old-fashioned, but I believe our children deserve caring, well-trained teachers—not robots programmed to replace them.”
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) posted “Yesterday, I introduced a significant AI framework meant to build a brighter and safer tech future for our kids. We can meet this moment with hope and action. I’m ready to work to get real solutions done.”
Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH) posted “Five of our efforts – including protecting communities from AI data centers and lowering drug costs to building up domestic supply chains – have officially passed out of EnergyCommerce. They’re now moving to the House floor, where we’ll keep fighting to pass these so our communities get the support they need.”
Rep. Nathaniel Moran (R-TX) posted “This is exactly the scenario my AI Incident Reporting Act addresses, requiring developers report dangerous AI behavior to CommerceGov. New rules are needed for this new tech frontier—not to stifle innovation, but to make sure our innovations do not outpace our protections.”
Rep. Bill Huizenga (R-MI) posted “This is why my bill, the Deterring American AI Model Theft Act, is a must pass to stop these model extraction attacks.”
Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO) posted “AI doesn’t have to come at the expense of affordable electricity. With the right policies, we can support AI growth while protecting grid reliability and keeping energy costs low for families. Innovation and affordability can go hand in hand.”
Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) posted “Great conversation with Semafor and burgessev this morning about how AI is transforming our economy and the future of work. America’s greatest competitive advantage is our workforce, and we must equip workers with the skills and tools they need to lead in the AI era.”
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) posted “As Chair of the HASCRepublicans Cyber Subcommittee, I was glad to speak in support of the #FY27NDAA. America must move faster to adopt AI, cyber, quantum and other advanced capabilities that support our warfighters, deter conflict and keep us ahead of our adversaries.”
Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) posted “Big Tech, AI, crypto, and online betting corporations have spent at least $294 million so far to influence the 2026 midterm elections. We must abolish Super PACs and get big money out of politics.”
Rep. Pat Harrigan (R-NC) posted “What happens when AI, American manufacturing, and millions of American families all depend on the same electric grid? That’s the energy challenge we’re heading into, and it’s exactly why the House passed my bipartisan legislation to accelerate next-generation geothermal.”
Rep. Nick Begich (R-AK) posted “During today’s NatResources Energy & Mineral Resources Subcommittee Hearing, I highlighted why modern geological mapping is essential to unlocking Alaska’s vast resource potential. Programs like Earth MRI, combined with emerging technologies like quantum gravity gradiometry, can help identify critical mineral resources with greater precision. America’s energy security, mineral independence, and economic future depend on better understanding the resources beneath our feet.”
Energy and Commerce Committee posted “Why does Governor Hochul use AI when she just banned any new data centers from being built in New York? Far-left Democrats want to reap the benefits but ban the necessary technology. Progressives’ hypocrisy is off the charts”
Rep. Greg Casar (D-TX) posted “This is extremely alarming. AI is developing extremely fast with no real regulations to keep us safe. That has to change. We need regular mandatory independent safety testing and oversight, mandatory disclosure of security incidents, and international cooperation to keep people safe from absolute disaster.”
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) posted “3 months ago, I was told how wrong I was for talking to leading U.S. and Chinese scientists about the need for international cooperation on AI. Now, the United States and China are doing exactly what should have happened all along: sitting down to talk. Better late than never.”
Sen. Dave McCormick (R-PA) posted “America didn’t forget how to build. We got buried in bureaucracy and paperwork. AI is the tool that cuts the red tape and unleashes the American worker to outbuild China. Grateful ssankar made this case at our Defense Summit in Pennsylvania.”
Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) posted “This major TSMC investment proves the Trump Administration is laser-focused on restoring American manufacturing dominance and securing U.S. leadership in AI and advanced semiconductors. Congressman Hamadeh is thrilled it’s all happening right here in AZ-08, delivering high-paying jobs for our veterans and families.”
Rep. Terri Sewell (D-AL) posted “Today, I’m announcing that I have cosponsored the AI Data Center Moratorium Act. Alabamians are asking important questions about how the rapid expansion of data centers will impact our water, our environment, and our quality of life. I don’t believe we have received sufficient answers, and it’s clear that these facilities are being built faster than we can establish the safeguards our communities deserve. Our bill would pause the construction of these large, AI data centers until Congress can put in place protections for our people, our environment, and the natural resources we all share. All across Alabama, ordinary people are speaking up because they care about the future of their communities. They deserve to be heard.”
Rep. Tom Barrett (R-MI) posted “Life-and-death decisions should never be outsourced to artificial intelligence. That’s why I introduced bipartisan legislation last week to put clear safeguards in place for autonomous tech in our military to make sure a human — not a computer — is in control of lethal force.”
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) posted “If we want to win the AI war and the Quantum Computing War, then don’t wage war against Data Centets. We can build Data Centers smartly and expand our energy production to make it possible. Coming in second in AI is coming in last.”
Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) posted “Illinois is leading the quantum revolution. With the help of GovPritzker, I’m proud to announce a $30 million federal investment in the Bloch to strengthen America’s quantum supply chain, create good-paying jobs and keep the Midwest at the forefront of innovation.”
Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) posted “NEW: AI contains a lot of promise… but it also poses serious threats to our economy, privacy, national security, and more. I just unveiled 6 new bills that will chart a brighter path forward for everything from data centers to job displacement so we’re ready to meet this moment.”
Rep. Sam Liccardo (D-CA) posted “The Bay Area leads the world in innovation, and smart investments in quantum research can keep us there. Thanks to Dr. Claire Cramer and her UC Berkeley team– and to TimGraysonCA – for stopping by to discuss how federal partnerships can help California drive the next technological breakthrough.”
Energy and Commerce Committee posted “With electricity demand from data centers reaching record highs, American families shouldn’t be the ones footing the bill. RepMGriffith speaks on the Protecting Families from AI Data Center Energy Costs Act, requiring FERC to bring stakeholders together and report back on how to keep AI’s energy costs from impacting residential electric bills.”
Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-NC) posted “The rise of AI cannot mean that it is being used to make decisions of lethal military force. I’m proud to be an original cosponsor the Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act to ensure that weapons systems always have a human decision-maker in control.”
Energy and Commerce Committee posted “Artificial intelligence presents an unprecedented opportunity for America’s grid. RepHarshbarger’s Affordable Innovation for the Grid Act will direct ENERGY to study AI’s ability to enhance the capacity and operational efficiency of the power grid — reducing costs and increasing power reliability for Americans.”
Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA) posted “Yesterday marked 57 years since Neil Armstrong took humanity’s first steps on the moon and reminded the world that America does what others think is impossible. As we look to the next frontier, from space to artificial intelligence and beyond, America must continue to lead through innovation. I can’t wait to see what we accomplish in the years ahead.”
Sen. Ed Markey (D-MA) posted “I am grateful for the support of so many families, kids, and experts for my Youth AI Privacy Act. This legislation includes strong, enforceable protections against manipulative, invasive AI chatbots. It’s time for Congress to act.”
Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-NY) posted “Since then, we’ve passed 20 Committee bills through the House, strengthened security for major events like the World Cup, and led efforts to address emerging threats from AI, cyberattacks, terrorism, and more.”
Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA) posted “I visited UCSD’s Supercomputer Center to learn more about how they’re using advanced computing and AI to tackle real-world challenges, including supporting wildfire response and advancing health care research. It’s critical that we harness AI to help people, not just a few tech companies.”
Energy and Commerce Committee posted “Protecting our communities and families from rising electricity costs and winning the AI race doesn’t need to be an either or decision — we can have both. Chairman RepGuthrie sets the record straight: The Ratepayer Protection Act protects hardworking families AND ensures America leads in AI dominance.”
Energy and Commerce Committee posted “Meeting the power demand for data centers is critical to winning the race for AI dominance. USRepGaryPalmer is right. We need to build the infrastructure needed to win this race while protecting hardworking families from paying the cost.”
Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) posted “Winning the AI race is absolutely essential, but it should NOT come at the expense of East Tennesseans’ utility bills. Proud to support repgabeevans’ Ratepayer Protection Act and work with my HouseCommerce colleagues to shield Americans from high energy costs.”
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) posted “Golf courses use more water. We can amp up our power generation and build data centers smartly. But… coming in second with AI is the same as coming in last.”
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) posted “AI surely helps with research. But, AI can be used for offensive and defensive cyber, deciphering secure comms, finding diseases faster and earlier, etc.”
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) posted “My advice is to lean into AI and oppose the Luddites.”
Sen. Jon Husted (R-OH) posted “If America wants to lead the world in AI and strengthen our national security, we have to build the energy infrastructure to support it. But we must do that without passing the costs on to working families and small businesses. I introduced the Ratepayer Protection Act to keep America globally competitive while protecting Ohioans and Americans from higher electricity bills.”
Rep. Eric Burlison (R-MO) posted “The future of warfare will be shaped by AI. Recent conflicts have shown how AI can enhance battlefield decision-making, targeting, and operational effectiveness. Maintaining American leadership in AI is essential to preserving our national security.”
Sen. Todd Young (R-IN) posted “Today, US_EDA announced that the Bloch Quantum Tech Hub, which includes partners in northwest Indiana, will receive $30 million in federal funding.”
Rep. Zach Nunn (R-IA) posted “A shortage of rural workforce training has slowed the adoption of artificial intelligence for Iowa’s farmers. We’re leading the FARM AI Act with RepDonDavis to address those challenges by modernizing USDA programs and help move innovation from the laboratory to the family farm.”
Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE) posted “We won’t win the AI War if we are at War with Data Centers. China and Russia would love us stomping on the Data Centers.”
Rep. Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) posted “TSMC’s latest update confirms what we’re seeing on the ground in Arizona: strong, multi-year demand for AI chips is here to stay. This isn’t just another expansion — it’s proof American semiconductor manufacturing is surging forward, powered by AZ-08. Proud to see our district leading America’s AI future.”
Rep. Herb Conaway (D-NJ) posted “AI is rapidly changing the healthcare landscape, but we need to make sure patients aren’t being left behind. That’s why I introduced a bill that would prohibit prior authorization requests from being denied using artificial intelligence unless they are reviewed by a qualified physician. You can read more about this bill on my website.”
Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) posted “I recently had the opportunity to tour Citibank in Tampa and meet with employees to discuss how they are leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence to strengthen cybersecurity, safeguard sensitive customer information, and combat increasingly sophisticated fraud schemes. It was encouraging to see firsthand how innovation is helping protect consumers while enhancing the security and resilience of our financial system.”
House Homeland GOP posted “’The CCP is no longer just nipping at our heels in AI; it is racing to close the gap in some of the exact capabilities that will shape the future of cybersecurity.’ - Chairman RepGarbarino. The PRC is closing the AI innovation gap with leading U.S. frontier labs, and the implications are wide-ranging––from intellectual property theft to cybersecurity, data security, and critical infrastructure risks posed by the deployment of PRC AI systems in American products & services.”
What I’m Reading This Week
The Secret Trump Administration Battle to Fight Chinese AI, Maria Curi, Axios.
Open Weights and American AI Leadership, American Innovators Network, Andreessen Horowitz, Arcee AI, Arena, Black Forest Labs, Box, CrowdStrike, Dell Technologies, Emergence Capital, Hugging Face, IBM, The Linux Foundation, Mariana Minerals, Meta, Microsoft, Mistral, Mozilla, NVIDIA, Palantir, Perplexity, Reflection, Replit, ServiceNow, Telnyx, and Y Combinator, Open Letter.
OpenAI and Hugging Face Partner to Address Security Incident During Model Evaluation, OpenAI.
About Zero One Strategies
Zero One Strategies is a specialized government relations practice dedicated to navigating the complex landscape of U.S. federal policy in emerging technologies. As advancements in technology continue to outpace regulatory frameworks, Zero One Strategies aims to provide strategic guidance and bipartisan advocacy for innovators and businesses operating at the forefront of technological development.
The practice focuses on key areas such as artificial intelligence, digital assets, blockchain, decentralized technologies, cybersecurity, data, and digital infrastructure, as well as the multiple policy issues impacting these sectors, including tax and financial services.
Contact us at Stacey@ZeroOneStrategies.com
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