U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders is hosting a rare international discussion bringing together American and Chinese scientists to address what he calls the “existential threat” posed by artificial intelligence. The Capitol Hill event reflects Sanders’ growing push for stronger AI safeguards and global cooperation at a time when Washington is increasingly focused on technological rivalry with China.
Sanders defended the inclusion of Chinese researchers despite criticism from members of the Trump administration and national security hawks. He argued that cooperation on AI safety should transcend geopolitical competition, comparing it to nuclear arms discussions during the Cold War. According to Sanders, international collaboration is necessary to ensure AI develops in ways that are safe and beneficial rather than destabilizing or dangerous to humanity.
The event has triggered backlash from critics who believe involving scientists tied to Chinese institutions could undermine U.S. strategic interests. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and several Republican lawmakers argued that the U.S. should prioritize maintaining technological leadership over collaborative governance efforts. Critics also pointed to growing tensions between Washington and Beijing over AI competition, cybersecurity, and accusations of AI-related intellectual property theft.
Beyond geopolitics, the discussion reflects Sanders’ broader campaign warning about AI’s societal risks. He has repeatedly cited concerns from leading researchers about mass unemployment, misinformation, loss of privacy, and the possibility of superintelligent systems escaping human control. Sanders and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez recently proposed legislation to pause construction of new AI data centers until stronger federal regulations are established, signaling a far more cautious approach to AI development than most of Silicon Valley currently supports.
