On October 1, 2020, U.S. Rep. Jake Auchincloss made the novel decision to have an AI program named “Mouser” read a speech he had written in support of a bill that seeks to create a U.S.-Israel artificial intelligence (AI) center. By doing this, Rep. Auchincloss became one of the first elected officials to use AI technology in lieu of delivering a speech himself.

The bill in question, officially named the U.S.-Israel Center for Artificial Intelligence, was drafted to support the development of cutting-edge AI research in both the United States and Israel. Primarily, the bill’s purpose is to establish a joint U.S.-Israel international AI center and to promote cooperative AI activities between the two countries.

When Rep. Auchincloss decided to let an AI read his speech, the intent was to showcase the potential of this technology in a very real and relatable way. “This AI is a tool in my toolkit as a legislator just like my pen and my iPad,” said Rep. Auchincloss. “We should not fear moving forward with technology to improve our lives, but instead be eager to explore the possibilities new technology offers.”

Rep. Auchincloss is one of a growing number of policymakers who are looking to embrace the potential of AI to help their constituents in a meaningful way. By using AI to replace humans in tasks such as delivering speeches, Rep. Auchincloss is paving the way for a new era of accessible technology for lawmakers. The use of AI for this purpose is likely to inspire other members of Congress to find creative ways to use it for their work. In the end, this could lead to advances in policymaking that would benefit Americans everywhere.