OpenAI and Google Workers File Amicus Brief in Support of Anthropic Against the US Government

In a significant show of industry solidarity, over 30 AI researchers from OpenAI and Google have personally intervened in Anthropic's legal battle with the Pentagon. The group, which includes high-profile figures like Google DeepMind's chief scientist Jeff Dean, filed an amicus brief supporting Anthropic's request for a temporary restraining order. This comes hours after Anthropic sued the Department of Defense and other agencies over its designation as a 'supply-chain risk,' a sanction that cripples its ability to work with military contractors. The researchers signed in a personal capacity, stating the Pentagon's move 'introduces an unpredictability... that undermines American innovation and competitiveness.'

The core of the dispute stems from failed negotiations where Anthropic sought contractual guardrails, including prohibitions on using its AI for mass domestic surveillance or autonomous lethal weapons. The amicus brief argues these are 'legitimate concerns' and that such developer-imposed requirements are 'a vital safeguard' in the absence of public law. The brief contends the Pentagon could have simply terminated its contract with Anthropic rather than applying a broad blacklist that 'chills professional debate.' The move has drawn public criticism from other AI leaders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who called it 'very bad for our industry and our country.' Notably, as Anthropic's relationship with the Pentagon deteriorated, OpenAI secured its own military contract, a move some viewed as opportunistic amidst the ongoing industry tension over ethical boundaries for AI in defense.