One signal

Many US lawmakers told Axios they rarely use AI, or have never used it, even as they face pressure to write rules for the technology. The report names senior figures including Senator Roger Wicker, Representative Frank Pallone and Senator James Risch among those who said they do not personally use AI.

Why it matters

That matters because lawmakers are being asked to judge systems changing how people work, search, create and make decisions. Some members argue that direct use is not necessary to write sensible legislation. Others, including Senator John Hickenlooper, say it is hard to understand the technology without trying it. Representative Don Beyer, meanwhile, has studied machine learning and says he uses Claude.

Discuss: Should lawmakers be required to use the AI systems they regulate, or is hands-on experience a distraction from evidence, expertise and public accountability?

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