Sen. Mike Rounds, during an exclusive interview with Fox News Digital at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library, addressed the challenges faced by the United States in its competition with China, particularly in the realm of technology and intellectual property. He stressed that while maintaining economic ties with China is essential, the U.S. must safeguard its technological innovations, especially in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). Rounds noted that the United States, despite its technological prowess, cannot afford to be completely isolated from its largest trading partner.
He emphasized the need for a balanced approach, where the U.S. can influence China’s technological development without giving them unrestricted access to its advanced technologies. According to Rounds, this strategy would allow the U.S. to maintain a strategic advantage by setting global standards for AI and other technological advancements. The senator described China’s ability to move quickly and unify its economic activities under the direction of President Xi Jinping as a significant challenge for the U.S.
Rounds also mentioned the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and China, including the recent trade agreement that Trump claimed was violated by China. He highlighted the importance of protecting intellectual property, noting that the United States faces a staggering annual loss of $600 billion due to Chinese intellectual property theft.
Additionally, Rounds touched on the potential of AI in the healthcare sector, predicting that as AI becomes more integrated into medical practices, it will improve the quality of life for Americans and gain public acceptance. The senator argued that when Americans see tangible benefits from AI, they will support its rapid development. This, he believes, will keep the U.S. ahead of China in the global technological race.
Lastly, Rounds expressed his commitment to passing the Big Beautiful Bill, which is designed to advance Trump’s agenda on taxes, immigration, energy, and the national debt. He warned that without passing this legislation, American families could face a significant increase in taxes. The senator reiterated the importance of working with the House to expedite the bill’s passage.