Congress Grapples with AI, Tech Safety Amidst Global Competition

“I am worried that we preserve competition in these areas,” stated Congressman Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), highlighting a crucial concern for the bipartisan commission on AI he co-leads. This sentiment underscores a broader apprehension about the nation’s technological future, a theme woven throughout the recent Squawk Pod episode featuring discussions on AI, chip sales, and economic policy. Gottheimer spoke with CNBC’s Becky Quick about the critical need for legislative action on artificial intelligence and technology safety. He emphasized the bipartisan nature of these efforts, noting that collaboration extends beyond AI to other vital areas. “Whether you’re talking about energy, child safety, or deep fakes, which of course are a huge issue, child safety, you know, all of these things are issues that we are working together on,” Gottheimer explained, underscoring the shared understanding of pressing technological challenges. A key insight from the discussion is the recognition that AI regulation and safety are not partisan issues. Gottheimer’s commission aims to legislate technology safety in a bipartisan manner, demonstrating a consensus across the aisle on the importance of proactive governance in this rapidly evolving field. This bipartisan approach is essential for fostering trust and ensuring responsible development and deployment of AI technologies. The episode also delved into the geopolitical implications of semiconductor sales, specifically President Trump’s plan to allow Nvidia to sell its H200 chips to China. CNBC’s Emily Wilkins reported on the Republican reactions, noting a division within the party. While some Republicans expressed concern about enabling China’s technological advancement, others seemed more amenable to the potential economic benefits. This division highlights the complex interplay between national security interests and economic considerations in foreign policy. Former SEC Chair Jay Clayton, now U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York, provided commentary on AI regulation and the challenges of affordability and crime in New York City. Clayton’s perspective adds a crucial layer of regulatory and legal insight, emphasizing the need for thoughtful and practical approaches to AI governance. His concerns about affordability and crime in New York City also bring a grounded, real-world perspective to the broader discussions. A significant takeaway is the concern about maintaining a competitive edge. Gottheimer articulated this clearly: “If we have only one AI provider, that scares the heck out of me.” This fear of a monopolistic landscape in AI development is a valid concern for policymakers and innovators alike, emphasizing the importance of fostering a diverse and competitive ecosystem. The conversation also touched upon President Trump’s impending decision regarding the next Federal Reserve Chair. Wilkins reported that Trump has a “pretty good idea” of his pick, indicating that a significant announcement is imminent. The potential shift in leadership at the Federal Reserve carries substantial implications for monetary policy and the broader economic outlook. The Republican reaction to the Nvidia-China chip deal, as reported by Wilkins, revealed a spectrum of views. Senator Lindsey Graham, for instance, expressed reservations, stating, “I don’t feel very good about the sales of some of these chips that we can make domestically, to China.” He believes such sales could undermine the U.S.’s technological advantage. This sentiment reflects a broader debate about export controls and the strategic use of technology as a geopolitical tool. Ultimately, the discussion on “Squawk Pod” provided a comprehensive overview of critical issues at the intersection of technology, policy, and economics. From the urgent need for AI regulation to the geopolitical ramifications of chip sales and the ongoing leadership questions at the Federal Reserve, the episode offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing the nation. The bipartisan efforts in AI, the nuanced Republican reactions to tech policy, and the focus on economic stability all paint a picture of a complex and rapidly evolving landscape.