Before the emergence of AI, Rep. Riley Moore worked as a welder in an Appalachian mining operation. Now, as technology rapidly evolves, he suggests that AI could enhance safety and productivity for workers like himself rather than simply replacing them.
Moore, a Republican from West Virginia, has shared his thoughts with the Teamsters and other labor representatives while Congress and businesses assess how quickly AI should transform workplaces and the government’s role in that change, particularly due to economic and national security concerns.
“I began my career as a welder, coming from a family of welders,” Moore shared in a recent interview. “AI has vast potential to usher in positive advancements in manufacturing, but it also poses serious risks that could disrupt job structures as we know them.”
Given his state’s deep ties to mining and manufacturing, Moore promotes the idea of AI functioning as a “force-multiplier” for workers instead of being a straightforward replacement.
Moore expressed a preference for focusing on the “positives” of AI. He believes that, if developed correctly, AI can extend the longevity and safety of blue-collar jobs, which could lead to better efficiency and higher wages.
“Really, AI could allow workers to remain in their trades longer, make their jobs safer, and ultimately improve efficiencies, benefiting our economy,” he explained.
However, he also cautioned about AI’s potential to eliminate jobs and disrupt a vital aspect of human existence: work itself, which provides purpose and dignity.
Moore’s district features significant transport routes like Interstates 79 and 81. He noted that, while the trucking sector—historically unionized—could gain from AI, the rise of automated trucking poses its own risks.
“I’m not in favor of fully automated trucks,” he clarified, “but using AI to improve trucking safety and productivity is a must. AI can act as a ‘co-pilot’ to mitigate dangers such as drowsy driving, ensuring truckers stay employed while enhancing road safety.”
Concerns about AI’s impact on job dignity have been echoed by religious leaders, including thoughts from Pope Leo XIV’s recent encyclical, which contrasts potential challenges of AI with the need for renewal and rebuilding within society.
Moore has engaged with Teamsters’ leadership as unions work through AI’s implications for their members. Although Teamsters did not provide further comments, they acknowledged Moore’s contributions at a recent event.
Using AI for increasing workflow efficiencies may result in higher wages, while also ensuring U.S. leadership in the AI space could mitigate the competition from China’s advancements.
Data centers, which support AI advancement, have become controversial within Moore’s district and nationwide. In areas like the Eastern Panhandle and Tucker County, local opinions are mixed about the influx of data centers.
Moore pointed out three critical questions regarding data centers: whether they will generate their own energy, how they will manage water usage, and if local communities welcome their presence. He stressed the importance of community input regarding data centers.
Ongoing discussions question whether the tax revenue generated by these data centers can offset community interests. Moore concluded, “As a Republican, I fully support federalism, allowing communities to decide if they want data centers in their neighborhoods.”
