AI Race: A Key to Economic and Military Dominance
During a recent policy event hosted by Breitbart News in Washington, Undersecretary of War for Research and Engineering, Emil Michael, emphasized that the outcome of the AI race between the United States and China will significantly influence future economic and military power dynamics.
In a discussion titled “AI is Here: What to Fear, What to Embrace,” Matthew Boyle, Breitbart News’s Washington Bureau Chief, inquired about the implications of the U.S. potentially losing this pivotal race. Michael made it clear that the winner will enjoy substantial economic advantages. He reflected on the 20th century, where military strength, especially during World War II, established a kind of global stability—albeit with the exception of the Cold War—setting the stage for technological advancements fueled by U.S. dominance. He remarked that innovations like the internet and smartphones originated in the U.S., underscoring the link between technological leadership and economic prosperity.
“Looking ahead to the 21st century, I believe that technological supremacy will dictate economic and military leadership,” he stated. “If AI becomes the crucial technology of our time, failing to lead in that domain poses a serious threat to our standing.” Michael added that the potential winner of this technological race could set the dollar as the dominant reserve currency, reaffirming U.S. control over the global financial system.
Michael pressed the question: “Do we prefer a Chinese model or an American one in the coming century? It all hinges on who masters technology.”
Earlier in the event, Taylor Budowich, who founded Innovation Council Action Inc. and previously served as a White House deputy chief of staff, expressed to Boyle that conceding the AI race to China simply isn’t viable.
“We can’t afford to lose,” he asserted. “Decades of decisions—particularly outsourcing manufacturing—have already set us back. If we also relinquish innovation, particularly in AI, we risk becoming dependent on China, both militarily and culturally. It’s alarming to consider that they could control the narrative around critical technologies.” He underscored the urgency of building up local communities and empowering individuals to harness AI effectively.
Budowich noted how AI is streamlining research and development processes, emphasizing that not everyone needs a prestigious degree to drive efficiency in business now. “You don’t need an elite education to solve real problems,” he argued. “People who’ve been laboring away for years have valuable insights on issues, and AI can help them realize solutions.” He expressed optimism that this technology could enable many who might otherwise struggle to find success. “We’re witnessing a significant democratization of power and intellect that could empower numerous individuals,” he added.
