In recent years, the artificial intelligence industry has ramped up its lobbying efforts, deploying numerous hired influencers to shape potential government regulations. This surge in lobbying is expected, given the technology’s rapid adoption by influential sectors such as healthcare, defense, and financial services, all of which aim to influence regulatory outcomes.
As AI evolves at a breakneck pace, lawmakers are increasingly relying on lobbyists for guidance, as think tanks, nonprofit organizations, and academic institutions struggle to keep up with the swift technological advancements. AI industry lobbyists are securing frequent meetings with legislators and their staff, using PowerPoint presentations and briefing papers to provide detailed insights into the technology.
The lobbying push appears to be effective, as evidenced by the slow progress on legislation aimed at regulating AI—a complex and challenging policy issue. Washington lobbyists are eagerly seeking clients with interests in AI, reflecting the technology’s growth and Congress’s efforts to determine the best regulatory approach.
A study by Open Secrets, a political finance watchdog, reveals that the number of organizations lobbying on AI soared to 460 in 2023, marking a 190 percent increase from 2022. The number slightly grew to 462 in 2024. These lobbying groups include major corporations and trade organizations driving the AI boom, such as the Chamber of Commerce, the Business Roundtable, and tech giants like Microsoft, Intuit, and Amazon.
The rise in lobbying is partly due to AI’s broad impact across various domains, including healthcare, education, national security, and the risks associated with disinformation.
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