Congress Turns Up the Heat on Tech Over AI and Power

Capitol Hill Fires Up the Tech Sector

U.S. lawmakers are intensifying efforts to hold Silicon Valley accountable for its role in advancing artificial intelligence, especially as competition with China escalates. During a recent Capitol Hill summit, top executives from Google, Microsoft, and other tech giants faced bipartisan scrutiny over America’s preparedness to lead in AI and energy infrastructure. Officials voiced concerns that current development tracks favor short-term profits over long-term strategic stability. Senators emphasized that AI capabilities and resilient power systems are essential to maintaining national security and economic competitiveness. The urgency was palpable, driven by China’s steady ascent in both fields — a trend that policymakers argue could challenge U.S. geopolitical influence unless addressed swiftly.

AI Progress, But at What Cost?

While executives touted breakthroughs in generative AI and large language models, lawmakers questioned whether tech firms are sufficiently aligned with national interests. They highlighted vulnerabilities in power grids, data center energy consumption, and chip supply chains that could derail critical AI progress. The congressional forum also revealed simmering anxiety over regulatory gaps, with leaders urging the private sector to proactively engage with both government and academia. The push marks an evolving strategy: coaxing innovation through collaboration while setting firmer boundaries to keep pace with geopolitical rivals. As tech becomes entwined with national defense, Congress is signaling that business as usual won’t cut it.