Techmeme: David Sacks and MAGA Influencers Oppose AI Chip Export Bill

David Sacks, the venture capitalist and 'All-In' podcast host, has joined forces with influential MAGA-aligned social media personalities to oppose the AI OVERWATCH Act (H.R. 6875). Proposed by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Brian Mast, the bill would impose new regulatory controls on U.S. exports of advanced artificial intelligence chips to China.

The coalition, which includes figures like Brad Parscale (@parscale), Joey Mannarino (@joeymannarino), and Laura Loomer (@lauraloomer), contends the legislation appears reasonable at first glance but contains flaws upon deeper examination. While specific objections weren't detailed in public statements, the group's opposition suggests concerns about economic impacts on U.S. semiconductor firms or potential inefficacy in achieving national security goals.

This pushback emerges amid escalating U.S.-China tech competition, where advanced chips powering AI systems have become focal points for export controls. The Biden administration previously enacted restrictions on high-end AI chip sales to Chinese entities, citing military applications. Mast's bill seeks to formalize and potentially expand such measures through congressional action.

The coordinated opposition from Sacks—a PayPal veteran with deep Silicon Valley connections—and politically resonant voices signals potential headwinds for the legislation. Their critiques, amplified across platforms like X, could influence Republican support in the House, where China policy remains contentious. Semiconductor industry groups have historically resisted broad export bans, warning they accelerate China's domestic chip development while costing U.S. companies revenue.

Neither Mast's office nor Sacks' team provided additional comment. The bill awaits committee markup, with its prospects now complicated by this public challenge from figures commanding significant conservative audiences.

Image: Featured image of semiconductor chips on a circuit board, representing the technology at the center of the export debate.