America’s AI Race with China Raises Concerns, Senator Cruz Warns
America’s competition in artificial intelligence with China has sparked considerable debate as the midterm elections approach. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, expressing concerns over ‘coordinated’ propaganda, addressed the importance of this race.
Recent debates in Congress and among American households have centered on data centers and AI policy. Cruz, as chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, told Fox News Digital that opposition to data centers stems from a well-funded, coordinated campaign. According to Cruz, this mirrors past efforts by Middle Eastern countries to hinder U.S. oil and gas development.
“If they convince us to rely on Chinese data centers, it benefits China but harms America,” Cruz stated.
At a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing in Washington, Cruz discussed these issues alongside notable tech figures such as OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, AMD CEO Lisa Su, CoreWeave CEO Michael Intrator, and Microsoft President Brad Smith.
Potential Influence from China
Despite a lack of direct evidence of Chinese funding affecting U.S. data center policies, there’s concern about covert influence. In June, OpenAI identified ChatGPT accounts from China spreading narratives alleging data centers increase electricity costs. OpenAI blocked these accounts, citing attempts to manipulate debates on U.S. AI policy.
Cruz emphasized crafting policies to secure America’s success in AI as a crucial economic question. He warned that a Chinese victory may result in AI focused on control and surveillance, reflecting Chinese Communist Party values. Conversely, he advocates for American AI featuring free speech and privacy.
Debate on AI and Data Centers
Cruz labeled Democratic opposition to AI advancement as aligned with industry players seeking antitrust law exemptions. He criticized groups like Anthropic for wanting government control over AI development.
“Effective altruism proponents are pushing their leftist ideology through AI,” Cruz commented.
He described this phenomenon as ‘rent seeking,’ where companies ask the government for benefits that entrench market positions.
The Role of Effective Altruism
Parker Thayer from the Capital Research Center discussed effective altruism’s ties to the ‘AI doomerism movement.’ Billionaire Democratic donor Dustin Moskovitz and his wife Cari Tuna, through Coefficient Giving (formerly Open Philanthropy), back this ideology. Moskovitz left Facebook in 2008.
Coefficient Giving has increased its investment in AI safety and policy, allocating $168 million in 2024 and $351 million in 2025, with projections exceeding $1 billion by 2026. The organization funds initiatives targeting global risks, AI safety, and more.
Preston Mizell, covering breaking news for Fox News Digital, reported on these developments.