Lobbyists for OpenAI, the prominent artificial intelligence (AI) company, have recently targeted the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) among other defense agencies, according to federal disclosures filed in January. This move, along with the hiring of top lobbying firms, signifies a shift in OpenAI’s attitude towards the military’s use of its technologies. Previously, OpenAI had banned the use of its tools for military and warfare purposes but has now removed that restriction in pursuit of DoD opportunities.
The disclosure filings reveal that OpenAI spent $260,000 on lobbying, while its competitor Anthropic, through outside lobbying firms, spent $280,000. Both companies had not enlisted U.S. lobbyists until 2023, when their CEOs testified before Congress. This surge in AI lobbying from various industries coincides with the introduction of AI legislation and a White House executive order.
OpenAI enlisted prominent lobbying firms DLA Piper and Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld, as well as in-house lobbyist Chan Park, a former senior director of congressional affairs at OpenAI’s investor Microsoft. Anthropic tapped firms Aquia Group and Tower 19, both of which also lobbied for Amazon, said to become Anthropic’s largest investor.
While OpenAI did not disclose details about the nature of its lobbying or the topics discussed with defense agencies, the filings indicate engagement with the White House, Congress, and various other departments. Anthropic disclosed lobbying efforts related to AI in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), stating that it supports funding non-defense programs that align with the company’s policy priorities. Anthropic’s co-founder also testified before the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology in support of continued funding for the National AI Research Resource, a pilot program established by the NDAA.
The Pentagon has expressed interest in utilizing generative AI systems, raising questions about the availability of OpenAI’s tools for military applications. While Anthropic currently prohibits the use of its technology for weapons or battlefield management, OpenAI recently softened its stance on military and warfare uses. It removed the ban but still prohibits the development of weapons with its tools. OpenAI’s vice president of global affairs mentioned talks with the DoD on implementing their technology for cybersecurity and assisting in the prevention of veteran suicide.
The increased lobbying activities of OpenAI and Anthropic have raised concerns among government watchdog groups, advocating for more transparency in the industry’s relationship with agencies and lawmakers. They argue that these relationships may impact federal spending and decision-making processes. Despite the recent developments, the specific opportunities OpenAI and Anthropic are exploring remain undisclosed, and neither company appears to have any publicly listed government contracts.
In summary, OpenAI and Anthropic have engaged in lobbying efforts, targeting defense agencies and advocating for AI-related issues. OpenAI’s change in policy towards military use reflects its pursuit of DoD opportunities, while Anthropic supports funding non-defense programs aligned with its policy priorities. The involvement of prominent lobbying firms highlights the growing influence of the AI industry on government decision-making. However, concerns over transparency and the impact on federal spending persist.
