Artificial Intelligence Lobbyists Influence Congress's Understanding of New Technology
Artificial Intelligence Lobbying in Washington
The artificial intelligence industry has gone on a lobbying binge in the past few years, deploying scores of hired influencers to help shape potential government action. This growth is not surprising as the technology is being rapidly adopted by powerful sectors, including health care, defense, and financial services, all striving for a say in potential regulations. Lawmakers are leaning on lobbyists' expertise amid a struggle to keep pace with constant technological changes.
Lobbyists' Success and Shifts in Regulation
Lobbyists in Washington are racing to acquire clients interested in AI, reflecting the technology's expanding influence and Congress’s quest for viable regulations. A recent study from Open Secrets indicates that the number of organizations lobbying on AI spiked to 460 in 2023, a staggering 190% increase from 2022. This number only slightly increased to 462 in 2024. With top corporations and trade organizations backing these lobbyists, the artificial intelligence lobbying effort is more formidable than ever.
The Regulation Debate
The primary goal of these lobbyists is to convince Washington that fears surrounding AI are overblown, arguing against the necessity to follow the European Union's newly established regulations under the Artificial Intelligence Act.
This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.