AI Leaders Push Back on Lobbying Talk

OpenAI’s chief executive stepped forward to defend his firm’s political actions amid growing worry about how AI companies influence lawmakers.

He said the company has taken part in lobbying, but claimed it is far less than that of other tech rivals.

The discussion came after critics pointed to a pro‑AI super PAC, “Leading the Future,” that has poured millions into congressional races.

The PAC is linked to OpenAI co‑founder Greg Brockman and his wife, which raised doubts about whether the company itself is tied to the group.

OpenAI clarified that no external political organization represents its views and that the Brockmans’ work is personal.

During a trip to Washington, Altman met with lawmakers and White House staff about a new executive order that lets AI labs share models with the government before public release.

He voiced frustration over money’s power in politics, wishing for a broader change in the rules that would level the playing field.

Altman avoided answering whether he had shared these thoughts with Brockman, insisting that OpenAI should be judged by the same standards as other firms.

The conversation highlights a tension between AI innovation and political influence, prompting questions about how the sector will navigate future regulation.