Artificial Intelligence: A Framework to Assess U.S. Competitiveness and Inform Policy Options

The GAO AI Competitiveness Framework provides policymakers with a structured approach for evaluating how the United States compares with other nations in developing and deploying artificial intelligence. The report identifies four core pillars—Science & Technology, Human Capital, Governance, and Economy—and recommends measuring AI competitiveness through targeted indicators, drivers, and signals. Rather than producing rankings itself, the framework helps analysts assess strengths, identify gaps, prioritize investments, and develop policy options that strengthen America’s leadership in AI innovation, workforce development, infrastructure, governance, and economic competitiveness.