OpenAI Lobbyist Advises 2028 Presidential Candidates on AI Policy

Chris Lehane, a top lobbyist for OpenAI and veteran Democratic political operative, is privately advising prospective 2028 U.S. presidential candidates on integrating artificial intelligence into their governing philosophies. In a memo distributed to contenders, members of Congress, and political operatives, Lehane argues that AI will define the next White House bids.

Lehane warns that opposing necessary AI infrastructure could leave candidates, particularly Democrats, on the wrong side of the debate. He characterizes the risk of losing the AI lead to China as potentially as consequential as the 2002 vote to go to war in Iraq.

To address these challenges, Lehane urges candidates to propose a "third path" between unchecked development and control by a "self-appointed elite." His recommendations include addressing the tax code and child protection while ensuring the United States maintains technological superiority over the Chinese Communist Party.