OpenAI: China conducted influence operation to skew US artificial intelligence debate

OpenAI released a report finding that China was likely behind a web-based influence operation aimed at biasing American public opinion on artificial intelligence technology and its infrastructure. The operation targeted Washington's political debate.

US artificial intelligence company OpenAI revealed on Wednesday, 11 June 2026, research concluding that China was likely behind a web-based influence operation designed to shape public and policymaker attitudes in the United States toward artificial intelligence technology.

The operation aimed to influence the debate underway in Washington over the infrastructure needed to develop artificial intelligence. The campaign sought to shape prevailing understanding of artificial intelligence in the US in ways favourable to Chinese interests, according to reporting by Politico on the OpenAI research.

This case illustrates broader tensions between the US and China in the artificial intelligence sector, which has become one of the principal battlegrounds in global technological competition. Both nations view artificial intelligence development as strategically important on both economic and security grounds.

OpenAI's disclosure highlights growing concerns about the use of artificial intelligence tools in disinformation campaigns and foreign interference in democratic processes. AI-powered tools make such operations significantly easier and cheaper to execute.