Bipartisan Push Targets DeepSeek and Similar Chinese AI Platforms
A group of bipartisan U.S. lawmakers has introduced new legislation aimed at prohibiting the use of Chinese artificial intelligence systems, most notably the platform
DeepSeek, by federal agencies and contractors. The move reflects escalating concerns about the national security implications of advanced AI tools developed in China and their integration into U.S. government operations.
Concerns About DeepSeek's Capabilities and Ties
The proposed ban comes amid growing alarm over DeepSeek, a low-cost, open-source AI model that has demonstrated performance rivaling or even exceeding several American-developed systems. Researchers and lawmakers have expressed alarm due to:
- DeepSeek's reported direct ties to the Chinese government
- Allegations of the platform being used to steal sensitive data from U.S. citizens
- Recent exposure of internal data through a security incident at DeepSeek, raising concerns about data integrity and espionage risks
Representative Josh Gottheimer, one of the act’s sponsors and a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, stated, "We simply can’t risk [China] infiltrating the devices of our government officials and jeopardizing our national security" [1][5].
Context: AI Competition and Security Risks
DeepSeek, which took the tech industry by storm with its competitive algorithms and open-source approach, has become a focal point in the ongoing technology race between the U.S. and China. The platform rapidly gained traction following its launch, leading to worries about it becoming a gateway for Chinese state influence within sensitive U.S. government systems.
Similar constraints on AI tools have appeared before. For instance, previous legislation sought to curb interaction and investment in Chinese AI by Americans, reflecting a broader policy of technological decoupling between the two nations [2]. Senator Josh Hawley emphasized, “Every dollar and gig of data that flows into Chinese AI are dollars and data that will ultimately be used against the United States.”[2]
Legislative Details and Broader Impact
If enacted, the new bill would ban all Chinese AI apps—including DeepSeek—on devices operated by U.S. government employees and contractors. This builds on earlier congressional and cybersecurity agency recommendations to minimize the risk of foreign data infiltration [3][5]. The language used in press releases and committee hearings has drawn parallels to previous concerns over TikTok and other tech platforms originating from China.
The legislation:
- Directs all government agencies and contractors to remove Chinese-developed AI systems from their devices
- Mandates enhanced cybersecurity protocols in the procurement and use of AI tools
- Aims to formally sever American public sector dependency on Chinese AI advancements
What Happens Next?
The bill is now under consideration in Congress, with supporters pushing for swift passage given the rapid adoption and evolution of AI technology globally. If passed, federal employees would face an immediate prohibition on the use of DeepSeek and similar Chinese platforms, significantly reshaping how artificial intelligence is integrated into government operations [1][5].
The legislative effort underscores the mounting urgency among U.S. policymakers to confront the technological and security challenges posed by foreign-developed AI and maintain American control over sensitive data and critical infrastructure.
