April 19, 2025

America Can Still Lose the AI Race

Hidden behind the United States’ strategy in the unfolding trade war, tariffs, and rapid restructuring of the world’s economic system lie two uncomfortable truths.

First, rapid artificial intelligence (AI) advancements are redefining the world’s digital future. As recently discussed by the New York Times: “The Government Knows A.G.I. Is coming." Second, while the United States has historically enjoyed a global leadership position in technological development and diffusion, this is no longer guaranteed.

China is poised to take advantage as countries begin to reduce their reliance on the American tech industry.

In fact, without substantial changes, a techno-authoritarian future is far more likely. China is increasingly outperforming the United States and its allies, thanks to its embrace of a digital, automated, and interconnected world and its capacity to export low-cost technological solutions abroad.

Now, more than ever, America must work with its allies to forge new technological partnerships that reflect liberal and democratic values in order to counter and outcompete a formidable digital China in its aim to establish a techno-authoritarian global order.

Read the full article on Real Clear Defense.

  • Commentary
    • May 27, 2025
    Semiconductor Imports and U.S. National Security

    The Secretary of Commerce has initiated a Section 232 investigation to determine the effects on the national security of imports of semiconductors and semiconductor manufactur...

    By Geoffrey Gertz & Caleb Withers

  • Commentary
    • May 20, 2025
    Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure on DOE Lands

    Maintaining America’s lead in AI data centers is critical for U.S. AI dominance....

    By Caleb Withers, Janet Egan & Spencer Michaels

  • Reports
    • May 8, 2025
    Lessons in Learning

    Executive Summary Although claims of a revolution in military affairs may be overhyped, the potential for artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy to change warfare is growin...

    By Josh Wallin

  • Commentary
    • April 29, 2025
    Five Objectives to Guide U.S. AI Diffusion

    The Framework for AI Diffusion (the Framework) is an ambitious proposal to shape the global distribution of critical AI capabilities, maintain U.S. AI leadership, and prevent ...

    By Janet Egan & Spencer Michaels

View All Reports View All Articles & Multimedia