Congress Launches Partnership to Advance US Robotics Lead

America is getting serious about staying ahead in the robotics race, and Republicans and Democrats are teaming up to make it happen.

Congressional leaders and top robotics executives gathered on Capitol Hill this week to launch the Partnership for Robotics Competitiveness, a new initiative to advance U.S. leadership in robotics and physical AI. The event, held in the Cannon House Office Building, brought together lawmakers and industry giants like Boston Dynamics, Ghost Robotics, and Apptronik to chart a path forward.

"The age of autonomy and advanced robotics is here, and dominance in this industry will determine who leads the next industrial revolution," said Michael Robbins, CEO of the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, which is leading the effort. The partnership released a roadmap for a National Robotics Strategy covering workforce development, manufacturing strength, and supply chain security.

The bipartisan energy was palpable. Rep. Jay Obernolte, a California Republican, introduced the National Commission on Robotics Act the same day. Rep. Jennifer McClellan, a Virginia Democrat, co-sponsored the bill and praised the partnership's work in advancing American robotics innovation.

Even the technology itself took center stage with live demonstrations of cutting-edge robotics at the launch event. Industry leaders presented two panels focused on economic competitiveness and national security, showing how these technologies can deliver better jobs, higher productivity, and enhanced safety.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership arrives at a moment when robotics is reshaping everything from factory floors to national defense. The initiative connects policymakers, tech companies, and researchers to ensure America builds these transformative systems at home rather than relying on foreign competitors.

The benefits extend beyond technological leadership. Jeff Cardenas, CEO of Apptronik, emphasized how a coordinated national strategy can align innovation with workforce development, creating good jobs while keeping the U.S. competitive globally. Senator Ted Budd of North Carolina highlighted how the partnership maximizes American leadership by bringing together stakeholders from multiple fields.

The white paper released alongside the launch provides concrete steps for collaboration between government, industry, and universities. Applied Intuition's Nicholas Kazvini-Gore noted that physical AI forms the foundation of both economic strength and national security, making coordinated deployment essential.

Boston Dynamics Vice President Brendan Schulman called this a pivotal time for advanced robotics, with the partnership positioned to shape how these technologies develop responsibly on American soil.

When political rivals work together on innovation that creates jobs and strengthens security, everybody wins.