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Viral post calls AI doomers a cult
The gist
A former Anthropic researcher's viral AI warning drew a Capitol Hill response and pushback from Trump.
The split over AI's pace now runs through Congress, the White House and industry.
How it unfolded
- Sep 8, 2026Jacob Coxon, a 27-year-old former Anthropic researcher, posted a viral warning that AI companies are "gambling with our lives."
- Sep 9, 2026Coxon told Axios he does not stand to profit if his statements inflate Anthropic's market capitalization, because he wasn't at the company long enough for his shares to vest; his Wikipedia article was created the same day.
- Sep 9, 2026Rep. Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) said there is "broad consensus" and that AI companies want a regulatory framework.