# Treasury Secretary Critiques AI Outreach

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed support for AI development while saying AI companies have not effectively communicated its public, economic, and national-security benefits. He pointed to industry self-regulation and U.S.-China dialogue on AI safety as relevant approaches. The remarks indicate continued federal interest in AI’s strategic value, but identify no procurement, funding, contract, or new requirement.

- AI contractors can use clear evidence of public, economic, and national-security benefits when explaining their offerings to government stakeholders.
- Bessent’s comments are policy context, not a solicitation or a change to procurement requirements; the signal provides no specific funding or acquisition action.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence
**Published:** October 21, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of the Treasury (Treasury)

### Sources
- [Scott Bessent gives AI companies a D-minus on public outreach](https://cryptobriefing.com/bessent-ai-companies-d-minus-outreach) - Crypto Briefing