Commerce Department plans national AI center in San Francisco

"The US Department of Commerce is preparing to open a national artificial-intelligence center in San Francisco, putting it closer to firms at the center of some of the government's most high-profile initiatives. In addition to the Bay Area, AI export officials will be based in cities across the US, according to a Commerce official, who asked not to be identified."

"The Trump administration is looking to increase the country's edge in AI and defense, industries that are largely based in California. It also aims to exploit natural resources in the state to increase the nation's energy independence and bolster its geopolitical leverage. The president has engaged in recent public spats with California Governor Gavin Newsom who's weighing a presidential run and sought to wield more influence in state matters."

"In recent weeks, the administration has intervened in key energy projects there, including a hydro-power dam, bans on natural gas and an oil pipeline. This month, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also announced a key trade deal with Taiwan, with the self-governed island's technology industry committing to making at least $250 billion in direct investments to expand advanced semiconductor, energy and AI operations in the US."

The US Department of Commerce will open a national artificial-intelligence center in San Francisco, bringing it closer to major technology firms and key initiatives. AI export officials will be stationed in the Bay Area and other US cities. The administration seeks to strengthen the country's advantage in AI and defense, leveraging California-based industries and natural resources to boost energy independence and geopolitical leverage. The president has entered public disputes with Governor Gavin Newsom, who is weighing a presidential run, and has sought greater influence over state matters. The administration recently intervened in energy projects and secured a Taiwan trade deal promising at least $250 billion in investments to expand semiconductor, energy, and AI operations in the US.

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