Nebraska Panhandle News

U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts participated in the AI+ Expo organized by the Special Competitive Studies Project in Washington, D.C. The event focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in global competition. During a session titled "Winning the AI Race with the CCP," Ricketts emphasized America's potential to lead in AI innovation.

Ricketts stated, "What we have to do is create an environment where American innovators are the ones who can continue to innovate." He stressed that the U.S. should not impose restrictions that might hinder other countries from adopting American innovations. According to him, either China's centralized system is correct or America's free enterprise system is. Ricketts expressed his belief in the latter and advocated for empowering free enterprise while encouraging international collaboration.

Highlighting AI's significance across various sectors, Ricketts noted its impact on industries vital to Nebraska and the broader United States economy. "AI has a huge potential for making us more efficient," he said, citing a 14% productivity increase for businesses implementing AI within months of adoption. This efficiency could help maintain U.S. leadership in fields such as pharmaceutical research, agricultural research, and defense technology.

The fireside chat offered insights into how America can harness AI's capabilities for sustained competitive advantage globally.