Key facts
- Lawmakers acknowledge a lack of expertise in Congress to regulate AI.
- Some members of Congress still struggle with basic internet use.
- Rep. Don Beyer is pursuing a master's degree in machine learning.
- Bill Gates believes self-regulation is insufficient for AI.
- An AI summit with tech leaders is planned by President Trump and Speaker Johnson.
US lawmakers are facing pressure to regulate artificial intelligence but many doubt Congress possesses the necessary expertise to address the technology's rapid advancement. While some members, like Representative Ro Khanna, point out that many in Congress lack a basic understanding of AI, others, such as Senator Thom Tillis, humorously noted that some lawmakers can barely use the internet. Representative Don Beyer, however, expressed optimism about developing the capacity for AI regulation, comparing it to the establishment of agencies like the FDA and SEC. The urgency for legislative action is widely acknowledged, with figures like Bill Gates emphasizing that self-regulation is insufficient. President Donald Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson are planning an AI summit with tech leaders.