US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that China overtaking the United States in artificial intelligence development represents the most significant risk associated with the technology. He emphasized this concern outweighs worries regarding AI safety or potential job displacement. Bessent highlighted China’s engagement with AI discussions as evidence of current American technological dominance, but warned against complacency. He positioned himself as a key figure in shaping US AI economic policy. The Secretary’s comments underscore a growing focus on maintaining a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. This perspective frames AI not primarily as a technological challenge, but as a critical area of geopolitical competition.