Enthusiasm for AI in GR

I know I can get enthusiastic about the promise of AI for policy work. But even I was surprised by the level of energy and curiosity at our AI Tools for Public Policy panel during last week’s Business-Government Relations Council (B-GRC) meeting in Charlottesville.

Under the skillful moderation of Michele Lieber, our conversation began with an engaging exchange among the panelists, which included 🗽 Pat Utz of Abstract, Benjamin Turner of 9th Street Strategies and LegAide AI, and me.

But the real spark came from the audience. The GR professionals in the room represented a wide range of experience: some had never tried AI tools, others had tested various consumer and enterprise products, and at least one had already built an army of agents to monitor her issues. Regardless of experience, everyone was eager to share, question, and explore what these technologies could mean for their work.

That energy carried through the afternoon and into dinner in the Thomas Jefferson–designed Jefferson Room at the Farmington Country Club. I couldn’t help wondering what Jefferson would have made of the discussion. Knowing his passion for tinkering, I suspect he’d have shown up with an army of agents of his own.