Rhode Island Governor Raimondo launches RAISE US, a bipartisan initiative to develop workforce strategies alongside AI deployment, backed by tech leaders.

Key takeaway

• Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo has launched RAISE US, a bipartisan initiative to develop workforce strategies as artificial intelligence technology is deployed by companies.

• Raimondo, who previously oversaw the CHIPS Act as Commerce Secretary, stresses that while AI implementation is advancing quickly, there is time to build a plan protecting workers from potential job displacement, and she is working with tech industry leaders and the Trump administration to address growing public anxiety about the technology.

3 Key Points

FAQ

What is RAISE US and who is leading it?

RAISE US is a project focused on developing a 'people strategy' to ensure workers are not left behind as AI is deployed. Governor Gina Raimondo is serving as CEO of the initiative full-time.

Is the U.S. government planning to take ownership stakes in AI companies through this initiative?

No. Raimondo stated that RAISE US is not planning to wade into taking government ownership stakes in AI companies, saying she gets uncomfortable with government ownership of private enterprises.

How does public concern about AI affect the initiative?

Raimondo says public opposition to AI and data centers is growing by the day in the United States. She notes that public sentiment toward AI in Europe, Africa, China, and Asia is not nearly as negative, and believes much of the U.S. anxiety comes from people's concerns about job security.