Republican Representative Calls for Federal AI Safeguards

September 13, 2026 - 20:02

GOP Rep. Mike Flood of Nebraska said Sunday that the federal government needs to step in and establish safeguards for artificial intelligence before the technology ends up in the wrong hands.

Speaking during a weekend interview, Flood argued that Congress has a responsibility to act rather than wait for problems to pile up. He said the goal is not to slow down innovation but to make sure the country stays ahead of risks tied to rapid AI development.

His comments come as lawmakers on both sides of the aisle push for clearer rules on how AI systems are built, tested and deployed. Concerns range from national security threats to the spread of false information and the potential misuse of powerful models by hostile actors.

Flood said the United States should take the lead on setting standards instead of reacting to decisions made elsewhere. He described the issue as one that touches nearly every sector, from defense to health care to the economy.

The representative did not offer a specific timeline for legislation but said the conversation needs to move faster. He added that leaving the technology unregulated could create vulnerabilities that are difficult to undo once they take hold.