WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, delivered the following opening statement at today’s hearing titled AI in the Everyday: Current Application and Future Frontiers in Communications and Technology.

Subcommittee Chairman Hudson's opening statement as prepared for delivery: 

“Good morning, and welcome to today’s subcommittee hearing on examining artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is being used in communications and technology industries.

“AI is a hot topic right now, not just in this country, but all over the globe. Although we know that AI has been used in different industries for many years, recent advancements in large language models, machine learning, and generative AI have pushed this technology into the spotlight, capturing public attention and transforming how we live and work. 

“The applications for this new technology are widespread and we are continuing to find new ways AI can be used to benefit Americans’ lives. 

“Whether you know it or not, almost everyone uses AI in our daily lives. Like when you use ChatGPT to create a shopping list or asking Siri for directions, but even more specifically, the rideshare you called is using AI to find the fastest route based on traffic patterns.

“Or how your cell phone provider uses AI to reduce harmful spectrum interference to your phone, ensuring there is no lapse in service. 

“The entertainment industry uses AI to predict what types of content viewers may enjoy and drives decisions on when that content should be produced. It is being used to develop content and enhance the editing process. 

“Even the National Football League uses AI to create the perfect schedule to limit unnecessary travel for players, create an even playing field for teams, and maximize fan accessibility for the biggest games. 

“As demand for AI grows, we must consider what physical infrastructure will be required to continue advanced AI development. 

“Storage capacity and energy consumption demands at data centers are expected to skyrocket by 2030 due to increased AI use. As data capacity increases, we will need robust fiber optic and wireless connectivity to ensure powerful new AI systems can reach their fullest potential. 

“But the United States is not the only country developing advanced AI. China recently released its DeepSeek AI model, which showed their advancements. 

“Our adversaries will stop at nothing to undermine our leadership in technological advancement and utilize AI to threaten our way of life. We must continue to innovate and develop to prevent that from happening.

“Competition in AI is a global issue, and it is imperative that the United States maintains its leadership. 

“To do this, we must foster an environment where AI companies can innovate, compete, and excel on the global stage. Just like the light regulatory touch that gave rise to the internet and some of the most successful and cutting-edge companies on the planet, AI must be given the same opportunity to ensure American companies set the standard for the rest of the world.

“This is an exciting time and opportunity to talk about these issues. Navigating these new and evolving technologies will not be without challenges, but we must meet them head-on. 

“Innovation has provided untold benefits to Americans and to our economy. Today, we will hear from our witnesses about how artificial intelligence is being used across the telecommunications, technology, and media industries, as well as what is required for the United States to maintain its leadership in developing AI models. I look forward to hearing from the witnesses today about these issues and how Congress can stand ready as a partner.

“I now yield five minutes to my colleague, Ranking Member Doris Matsui, for her opening statement.”

###