As nations compete to lead the artificial intelligence revolution, NCTA President & CEO Cory Gardner argues that America’s edge won’t come only from advanced chips or regulation—it will come from our broadband infrastructure.
In a new Fox News op-ed, Gardner writes that while China is investing heavily in AI and connectivity, “the United States must win the global race for AI domination… but the third component of victory can’t be overlooked: the U.S. urgently needs even better internet infrastructure.”
He points to the power of America’s privately built cable broadband networks—more than $340 billion in investment that has delivered gigabit speeds to 87% of U.S. homes—as the foundation of the nation’s digital strength. That, Gardner says, “is America’s secret weapon to crush China in the global AI race.”
Gardner notes that Wi-Fi plays a vital role in connecting consumers to the power of AI. “Wi-Fi matters because it’s the primary technology consumers use to access AI on their devices,” he writes, calling for policies that ensure enough spectrum to keep Wi-Fi strong and future-ready.
He concludes that continued investment and smart policy are essential to maintaining U.S. leadership: “Every generative AI query, self-driving vehicle and factory robot depends on light speed and reliable connectivity.”
