Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, has called on Attorney General Merrick Garland to investigate whether European governments are improperly influencing U.S. artificial intelligence (AI) regulations. In a letter dated Nov. 21, Cruz expressed concern that European nations, particularly through their regulatory frameworks and organizations like the UK-based Centre for the Governance of Artificial Intelligence (GovAI), are steering U.S. policies in ways that could harm American innovation.
The European Union has taken a leading role in global AI governance, passing the AI Act earlier this year. The legislation is the first comprehensive regulatory framework for AI and has been praised by some for prioritizing safety and accountability. However, Cruz criticized the regulations as “onerous” and reflective of “radical left” ideals, arguing they are designed to impose unnecessary burdens on U.S. companies.
Cruz pointed to agreements signed by the Biden administration with European governments, including a memorandum of understanding with the UK in April, as evidence of collaboration that could disadvantage American businesses.
Cruz specifically called out the Centre for the Governance of Artificial Intelligence, a UK-based nonprofit that co-hosted an AI policy summit in San Francisco. He accused GovAI of failing to register as a foreign agent despite engaging in political activities in the United States, potentially violating federal law.
In response, a GovAI spokesperson denied wrongdoing, stating, “GovAI is a strictly independent organization committed to operating responsibly and transparently.”
Cruz framed the issue as part of a larger pattern of foreign influence on domestic policy under the Biden administration, accusing it of working too closely with international partners without adequate transparency. “At the very least, the American people have a right to know what foreign actors are trying to impose these radical regulations on American companies,” Cruz wrote.
Cruz warned that adopting European-style regulations could stifle American innovation, particularly in the highly competitive AI industry. While he supports thoughtful AI governance, Cruz argued that U.S. policies must prioritize domestic interests and avoid undue foreign influence.
The investigation Cruz has requested could open new debates about the balance between international collaboration and preserving American technological leadership. As the global AI landscape evolves, the tension between regulatory alignment and national sovereignty is likely to remain a contentious issue.
