Illustration: Natalie Peeples/Axios
Tech advocacy groups are throwing their weight behind Commerce Secretary nominee Howard Lutnick in a letter to senators shared with Axios.
Why it matters: If confirmed, Lutnick would oversee department efforts to regulate AI and help spur its growth.
- The groups that signed say they prioritize the safe and responsible deployment of AI.
What they're saying: In a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and the rest of the chamber, the groups highlighted support for some of Lutnick's positions.
- They include Lutnick's backing of export controls, standard setting at NIST, bolstering domestic chip manufacturing, and expanding AI energy and data center infrastructure.
- "Lutnick has shown a strong commitment to responsible AI policy and a clear vision for ensuring the United States remains at the forefront of AI innovation and security," the groups wrote.
- Americans for Responsible Innovation, The Center for AI Policy, Encode, Future of Life Institute and Institute for Progress signed the letter.
What we're watching: Lutnick at a nomination hearing last week was adamant about maintaining U.S. competitiveness.
- The Trump White House has shown a hands-off approach to regulating AI, including by rescinding a Biden-era executive order aimed at deploying the technology safely.
- We'll be watching for what an AI "action plan" entails, as Trump has called for.
What's next: The Senate Commerce Committee will vote on Lutnick's nomination on Wednesday.
