Lawmakers mull US role in AI technology

Lawmakers and experts voiced concerns Nov 30 about America’s future as a leader in artificial intelligence technology. Sen Ted Cruz (R-TX) cautioned during a Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation subcommittee hearing that the US could lose its spot as a leader in developing AI technology. “Today, the United States is the preeminent leader in developing artificial intelligence. But that could soon change,” warned Sen Cruz. “Ceding leadership in developing artificial intelligence to China, Russia and other foreign governments will not only place the United States at a technological disadvantage, but it could also have implications for national security,” he said in opening remarks. Experts on a panel expressed similar sentiments. “I do think it’s important that we grow our AI workforce quickly,” said Andrew Moore, dean of the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University.