AI Trends for 2026 – Congress Signals Heightened Oversight of AI
The current landscape of AI governance is marked by a divided government and a noticeable lack of consensus regarding comprehensive AI legislation. Consequently, Congress is shifting its focus towards industry oversight, narrower policy bills, and requests for actions from the Trump administration.
Controlling the Export of Advanced AI Chips to China
Recently, the Trump administration permitted the sale of advanced AI chips to China. However, this decision has faced opposition from some Republican lawmakers, including House Foreign Affairs Chairman Brian Mast. He introduced the AI OVERWATCH Act, which aims to require congressional review of export licenses for these chips. Concerns have been raised regarding the potential misuse of exported AI chips by the People’s Liberation Army, prompting ongoing inquiries to ensure the security of U.S. AI technology.
Constructing Data Centers Across the Country to Power AI Development
In December 2025, Senator Elizabeth Warren raised concerns about the construction of data centers, which may be contributing to rising electricity costs for consumers. Senator Bernie Sanders has called for a moratorium on AI data center construction, highlighting the need for Congress to investigate the financial impact of these facilities on local communities.
Content Moderation vs. Censorship
There is consensus that AI outputs should remain impartial and factual, but significant disagreement exists regarding how to measure and correct bias. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz has alleged political bias within organizations like the Wikimedia Foundation, raising concerns about its influence on AI systems. This bipartisan interest underscores the necessity for AI regulation that aligns with factual integrity, particularly as we approach the 2026 congressional elections.
Synthetic Media and Risks to Children
The DEFIANCE Act, recently passed by the Senate, aims to protect victims of nonconsensual deepfake images. With the increasing significance of AI-generated media in campaigns, Congress is likely to renew its focus on ensuring content integrity. Additionally, AI chatbots have come under scrutiny from both the Senate Judiciary Committee and the House Energy & Commerce Oversight & Investigations Subcommittee, especially regarding their potential risks to children. Legislative proposals are being considered to restrict children’s access to these bots.
Workforce Impact and the Economy
The implications of AI on the American workforce and economy are expected to remain a focal point of congressional hearings throughout 2026. The House Education & Workforce Committee is set to examine the impacts of AI on job training and employment. Recent bipartisan proposals aim to track AI-related job losses and improve data collection regarding AI’s influence on the workforce.
As Congress continues to navigate these complex issues, it is clear that the landscape of AI oversight will evolve significantly in the coming years, with implications for technology, society, and governance.
