The US has been watching DeepSeek since late 2023 and still has a way to beat it, Biden's former AI advisor says
Mar 06, 2025 - businessinsider.com
DeepSeek, a Chinese AI firm, has been under scrutiny by the US government since late 2023, according to Ben Buchanan, a former AI advisor for the Biden administration. Buchanan, who served in various roles including special advisor for AI, noted that DeepSeek's advancements have been impressive but not deserving of the media hype. Despite triggering a sell-off in AI-related stocks due to its efficient and affordable models, Buchanan emphasized that DeepSeek faces similar constraints as other AI companies, such as computing power limitations. He advocated for continued constraints on DeepSeek and highlighted the importance of chip controls, acknowledging China as a significant competitor.
In contrast, former President Donald Trump viewed DeepSeek's models as a positive development, urging US industries to focus on competition. The situation underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding AI advancements and the strategic importance of maintaining technological leadership. Neither DeepSeek nor the White House provided comments on the matter.
Key takeaways:
DeepSeek has been on the US government's radar since late 2023, with concerns about its capabilities and impact on AI markets.
Ben Buchanan, a former AI advisor for the Biden administration, suggests that the US should continue to constrain DeepSeek's development.
Despite DeepSeek's impressive accomplishments, Buchanan believes the media hype is unwarranted and emphasizes the importance of chip controls.
President Donald Trump views DeepSeek's cheaper models as a positive development and a call for US industries to focus on competition.
