WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, released the following statement after President Trump signed an Executive Order launching the American Artificial Intelligence (AI) Initiative. The Executive Order will strengthen the U.S.’s global position in AI competition by boosting investment in AI research and development, setting standards for systems development and deployment, and creating a workforce that is capable of supporting AI technologies.

“Artificial Intelligence has great potential to benefit the American people, while enhancing our nation’s security and growing our economy,” said Wicker. “Today’s executive order will ensure that the United States remains a leader in emerging technologies and scientific development. I look forward to working with the President to guarantee AI is fueled by American innovation, while protecting consumer data privacy and American values.”  

The Commerce Committee exercises jurisdiction over the National Science Foundation and the National Institute of Standards and Technology. Both agencies are described in the Executive Order as having principal roles in supporting the American Artificial Intelligence Initiative.

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