Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) on Sept. 23 called on President Donald Trump to block Chinese access to advanced U.S. AI chips and chip-making equipment ahead of a scheduled meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
The lawmakers argued that easing restrictions could weaken U.S. leadership in AI development and undermine domestic manufacturing. Schumer stated in a press release that Trump should ‘not weaken America’s export controls’ and ‘do not give China greater access to the advanced chips and chip-making equipment it needs to close the gap with the United States.’
Schumer and Slotkin also urged Trump to keep Chinese-made cars out of the U.S. market, with Slotkin warning that such sales would ‘begin the end of U.S. auto manufacturing.’ She cited concerns that Chinese companies could share data with Iran to target U.S. service members, a claim based on media reports.
The calls come as Xi arrived in Washington on Sept. 23 for a two-day summit with Trump. The White House did not respond to a request for comment by publication time.
Background on U.S. Export Controls
In January, the U.S. Commerce Department adjusted its policy to require export licenses for certain AI-capable chips and semiconductor manufacturing equipment shipped to China. The move followed prior restrictions under the Biden administration, which included a blanket ban on AI chip exports to China in some cases.
Schumer and Slotkin now advocate for three bipartisan bills to further tighten these controls, arguing that current measures do not go far enough. Schumer emphasized that ‘the sales could weaken the U.S. lead in AI’ and called for Senate action to strengthen enforcement.
Slotkin separately highlighted concerns that Chinese firms supplying automotive technology to the U.S. could facilitate data transfers to adversarial governments, though she did not provide direct evidence linking specific companies to such activities.
The lawmakers’ statements reflect ongoing debates over balancing technological competition with economic engagement in U.S.-China relations.