tech
March 12, 2026
Sam Altman faced 'serious questions' in meeting with lawmakers about OpenAI's defense work
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman met with a handful of lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to discuss the company's work with the Defense Department.
TL;DR
- OpenAI CEO Sam Altman met with lawmakers in Washington, D.C., to address concerns about the company's defense work.
- Sen. Mark Kelly expressed "serious questions" regarding OpenAI's approach to warfare and its deal with the Department of Defense.
- Discussions included surveillance and the use of AI systems within a "kill chain."
- Kelly emphasized the need for "guardrails" and adherence to the Constitution regarding AI in defense.
- OpenAI recently secured a deal with the DOD, shortly after rival Anthropic was blacklisted due to "Supply-Chain Risk to National Security."
- Anthropic's contract talks stalled over concerns about unfettered military access and assurances against autonomous weapons and domestic surveillance.
- Altman stated that prohibitions on domestic mass surveillance and human responsibility for the use of force are key safety principles for OpenAI.
- OpenAI is confident its safety measures, contract language, and existing laws will prevent misuse of its AI by the DOD.
- Kelly is involved in drafting legislation to create boundaries and guardrails for DOD contracts with AI organizations.
- Lawmakers are concerned about the rapid advancement of AI technology outpacing legislative action.
Continue reading the original article