Incoming Energy and Commerce Chair Guthrie backs AI innovation in energy, health sectors

Brandon Pugh of the R Street Institute cited data privacy and security as key issues for the committee.

Pugh said, “I am looking forward to working with Congressman Guthrie as the incoming chair of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. The House Energy and Commerce Committee has focused on threats to Americans’ personal data from adversaries, notably China, during the 118th Congress. That remains a very real concern and should continue to be a priority in 2025.”

He said, “Given Congressman Guthrie’s military background and his past support for TikTok’s divestment from ByteDance based on national security grounds, I expect threats from China to be a continued area of interest.”

Pugh noted, “Congressman Guthrie has expressed support for kids-privacy measures, so I anticipate further action on that to continue his leadership. I encourage the committee to continue focusing on comprehensive data privacy and security measures rather than those directed only at children, because they would benefit Americans of all ages. However, it is imperative that any privacy measure balances the needs of consumers, industry, innovation, and security. Notably, Congressman Guthrie has raised concerns about how measures might impact small businesses.”