Unprecedented AI Lobbying Surge in 2024: How OpenAI, Anthropic, and Cohere are Shaping U.S. AI Regulation | SEO Mastermind Analysis
The AI lobbying landscape at the federal level in the U.S. is heating up amidst a booming generative AI industry and the upcoming election year that could significantly impact future AI regulations. According to new data from OpenSecrets, the number of groups lobbying the government on AI-related issues has increased from 459 in 2023 to 556 in the first half of 2024. Top AI startups like OpenAI and Anthropic have ramped up their lobbying efforts, with OpenAI's lobbying expenditures skyrocketing to $800,000 in the first six months of 2024.
OpenAI has expanded its team of outside lobbyists and hired prominent figures like former Senator Norm Coleman to advocate on research and development issues. Anthropic is also on track to spend half a billion dollars on lobbying, with investments in outside lobbying firms and an in-house lobbyist. Even smaller AI firms like Cohere are increasing their lobbying efforts, reflecting the growing importance of AI regulation in the political landscape.
As the election year unfolds, leading presidential nominees have expressed divergent views on AI regulation, further fueling the lobbying frenzy. The U.S. Commerce Department's recent report on AI regulation hints at potential directions under a Harris administration, while Congress is yet to pass comprehensive AI legislation. State and local governments are stepping in to fill the regulatory gap, proposing hundreds of AI laws this year.
OpenAI and other AI vendors are actively advocating for their preferred AI laws and rules, positioning themselves for potential antitrust cases from U.S. regulators like the DOJ and FTC. Recent scrutiny on Amazon's partnership with AI startup Adept and Microsoft's aqui-hire of Inflection staffers underscores the regulatory challenges AI companies are facing.
In conclusion, the surge in AI lobbying reflects the growing influence of AI in shaping policy and regulation. As the debate over AI regulation intensifies, investors and consumers should pay close attention to how these lobbying efforts could impact the future of AI innovation and governance. Stay informed and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of AI and technology.