"Big Beautiful Bill" and its AI Moratorium: A Controversial Play by Ted Cruz Sparks Debate

Introduction to the Big Beautiful Bill

The 'Big Beautiful Bill' has recently emerged as a significant topic of debate, largely due to its unique provision imposing a 10-year moratorium on state-level AI regulations. Advocates of the bill argue that this moratorium is essential for promoting innovation and maintaining national competitiveness, especially in the face of accelerating technological advancements by other countries like China. They assert that a patchwork of state laws could stifle innovation by creating regulatory uncertainty and compliance burdens for emerging technologies .

Conversely, this bill has faced substantial opposition from various sectors. Critics argue that it undermines states' rights to govern technologies according to local needs and context. Particularly, civil rights groups, child safety advocates, and certain Republican lawmakers have voiced concerns that the moratorium could expose citizens to a range of AI-related harms without adequate state-level protections. Opponents posit that states are more aptly positioned to implement responsive legislation that addresses the distinct challenges posed by AI technologies to their communities .

The political landscape surrounding the 'Big Beautiful Bill' is as dynamic as it is contentious. As the Senate prepares for an imminent vote, the bill's fate remains uncertain. There is a growing divide not only along party lines but also within parties, as some Republican senators join Democrats in opposing the bill due to its potential impact on state sovereignty and consumer rights. This division highlights the broader debate over the appropriate balance of power between federal and state authority in the regulation of rapidly evolving technologies like AI .

Why the AI Moratorium is Controversial

The debate surrounding the AI moratorium highlights a complex intersection of innovation, regulation, and state sovereignty. At the heart of the controversy is the "Big Beautiful Bill", which proposes a significant 10-year halt on state-level AI regulations. This move has been met with opposition from various quarters, including state legislators and civil rights advocates, who argue it undermines local efforts to protect citizens from AI-related risks. Critics warn that the moratorium could lead to unchecked AI advancements without necessary safeguards, leaving vulnerable groups exposed to potential abuses such as data misuse and discriminatory algorithms. Meanwhile, proponents emphasize the need for a unified federal approach to AI that could provide a consistent regulatory framework, essential for competing with global powerhouses like China [source].

One of the most contentious aspects of the AI moratorium is its placement within a broader tax and spending bill, which many see as a strategic, albeit controversial, legislative move. By embedding the moratorium clause into "must-pass" legislation, lawmakers hope to circumvent the resistance it might face as a standalone measure. This tactic has stirred debate over legislative ethics and the appropriateness of bundling unrelated provisions, especially when it comes to something as impactful as AI regulation. Opponents from both political wings argue that such a critical issue deserves independent scrutiny and decision-making processes, rather than being smuggled into law amidst broader governmental budgetary concerns [source].

Supporters of the moratorium argue that a patchwork of state AI laws could stifle innovation and reduce the United States' competitive edge against nations like China, which have rapidly advanced due to more streamlined regulatory environments. Tech giants such as OpenAI and Microsoft have voiced concerns about the inefficiencies and potential conflicts arising from fragmented state regulations. They advocate for a federal standard that could better facilitate business operations while nurturing technological advancement. These tech companies claim that a more cohesive regulatory landscape not only encourages innovation but also aligns the United States with global trends, potentially attracting more international AI ventures [source].

However, the opposition warns that local nuances and specific regional challenges may be overlooked in a federal-only regulatory framework. State legislators, along with various groups, argue that they are more adept at addressing specific AI-related threats and protections pertinent to their communities. The concern is that a federal blanket approach might miss addressing localized issues such as bias in law enforcement AI tools or safeguarding children from AI-generated content in education sectors. This fierce debate also underpins broader ideological divides about states’ rights and federal overreach, making the AI moratorium not just a tech policy issue but a pivotal moment in the ongoing discourse on federal governance versus state autonomy [source].

Arguments For and Against the Moratorium

The inclusion of a moratorium within the "Big Beautiful Bill" has sparked significant debate, with supporters and opponents articulating contrasting views. On one hand, proponents of the moratorium argue that a uniform federal standard is necessary to prevent a patchwork of state laws that could stifle innovation in the AI industry. They emphasize that having different regulations across states creates complexity and uncertainty for companies looking to develop and deploy AI technologies. This fragmented approach, they claim, could hinder the United States' ability to compete on a global scale, particularly against China, which has a more centralized and streamlined regulatory environment. Companies like OpenAI and Microsoft assert that a cohesive regulatory framework is essential for fostering an environment conducive to innovation and technological advancement, aligning with their broader business objectives [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

Conversely, opponents of the moratorium express significant concern over its potential to undermine state authority and consumer protections. A diverse coalition, including state legislators, civil rights groups, and consumer advocates, argues that states are in the best position to understand and address the unique risks and harms associated with AI technologies as they affect local communities. They warn that removing states' power to regulate AI could result in insufficient oversight, allowing potential abuses and risks to go unchecked. State-level regulations are seen as vital for ensuring that AI development aligns with community values and needs, addressing issues such as algorithmic bias and data privacy [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

The debate over the moratorium also reflects broader questions about federal versus state regulatory authority in rapidly evolving technological landscapes. Supporters of the moratorium argue that a single set of federal regulations could simplify compliance and foster consistent standards across the country. However, opponents contend that this approach overlooks the importance of local governance and the ability of states to enact more agile and responsive measures tailored to new challenges. The outcome of this legislative battle will likely set a precedent for how future technology regulations will be shaped, influencing the balance of power between federal and state governments [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

Impact on State Laws and Regulations

The introduction of the 'Big Beautiful Bill' carrying a 10-year AI moratorium ostensibly seeks to create a uniform AI regulatory environment across the United States. However, this provision has profound implications for state laws and regulations. By preventing states from enacting their own AI rules, the bill would effectively nullify approximately 149 existing state laws designed to address specific issues like deepfakes and unauthorized voice mimicking by AI technologies. Critics argue this undercuts locally responsive legislation tailored to protect consumers and citizens within their unique contexts. This has drawn significant opposition from a wide array of groups including civil rights organizations, child safety advocates, and state lawmakers, who emphasize the vitality of state-level intervention in managing AI's societal impacts [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

Proponents of the moratorium claim it is a tactical move aimed at fostering innovation by preventing a fragmented regulatory framework that could hinder AI development and competitive edge, especially against countries like China where technology deployment faces fewer bureaucratic barriers. They argue that diverse state laws could create an uneven playing field for AI development, imposing unnecessary strain on businesses operating interstate. AI industry leaders like OpenAI and Microsoft assert that a unified regulatory approach would streamline operations and reduce compliance costs, thereby accelerating technological advancements. Yet, such perspectives often clash with the constitutionally enshrined idea of states' rights to govern issues crucial to their residents [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

If passed, the bill will not only set a precedent in federal-state power dynamics but could also incite a political and legal tug-of-war, reflecting the broader debate over who best serves the public's interest in overseeing AI technology. By centralizing AI regulatory power, the federal government aims to curtail the so-called regulatory chafing that comes with disparate state laws. However, this centralization raises concerns about who holds the reins of tech innovation and governance – a centralized federal body or the decentralized but diverse states. This shift, while potentially simplifying compliance for tech firms, might ignite political debates and legal challenges regarding states' capacity to protect their citizens effectively and hail the beginning of an era where tech policy becomes a battleground in the federal-state relationship [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

Federal vs. State: The Battle for AI Regulation

The debate over AI regulation between federal and state governments is reaching a critical point with the introduction of the "Big Beautiful Bill." This legislative proposal includes a provision that calls for a 10-year moratorium on state-level AI regulations. Proponents argue that this national approach is essential to prevent a chaotic patchwork of laws that could harm innovation and competitiveness, especially as the United States aims to keep pace with countries like China in the AI arms race. However, the bill has become a lightning rod for controversy, particularly among those who advocate for state rights and the importance of localized governance.

One of the most contentious aspects of this federal vs. state battle is the provision that overrides numerous state laws that address specific AI-related issues, such as deepfakes or unauthorized voice mimicking. A Brennan Center study indicates that 149 state laws could be nullified if the federal moratorium passes. This has ignited fears that the federal government is overreaching and ignoring the unique needs and challenges faced by different states. At the heart of this debate is the question of whether a centralized or decentralized system can better manage the evolving challenges posed by AI.

Supporters of the federal moratorium emphasize the importance of a unified legal framework that would ease the regulatory burden on AI companies, facilitating innovation while maintaining a competitive edge on the global stage. They argue that inconsistent state laws could deter investment and hinder technological progress. Tech giants like Microsoft and OpenAI support the moratorium, voicing concerns over the inefficiency and potential chaos of a fragmented regulatory landscape. They believe that a cohesive national strategy would also position the U.S. more favorably against China, whose centralized regulatory approach has been credited for its rapid advancements in AI.

Opponents warn that a blanket federal moratorium could undermine the proactive measures some states have taken to safeguard their citizens from AI-related risks, such as algorithmic bias or the misuse of AI in sensitive areas like healthcare. They argue that states have a better grasp of the specific issues their communities face and that regulation should reflect local needs. Furthermore, there are concerns that the moratorium could make it difficult to address emerging ethical concerns and societal impacts of AI, leaving special interest groups, like civil rights and child safety advocates, worried about the federal government's intentions.

The upcoming vote on the "Big Beautiful Bill" will serve as a pivotal moment in determining the direction of AI regulation in the United States. On one side, the potential for streamlined federal oversight promises the allure of accelerated innovation and global competitiveness. On the other, the specter of diminished state control raises fears of insufficient consumer protection and unchecked technological impacts. As lawmakers prepare to decide, the debate reflects larger questions about federalism, industry influence, and the evolving role of technology in society. The outcome will inevitably shape the future landscape of AI regulation, with profound implications for both the technological and societal fabric of the nation.

Chances of the Bill's Passage

The passage of the "Big Beautiful Bill," including its contentious AI moratorium, remains highly uncertain due to the diverse political landscape it faces in the Senate. Despite its strategic attachment to a must-pass tax and spending bill, leading to a somewhat streamlined legislative journey, the moratorium has ignited bipartisan opposition. Critics, spanning from civil rights groups to state officials, contend that this provision dangerously curtails states' rights to regulate AI technologies, which they're better equipped to manage at a local level. This pushback is substantial, drawing from the fundamental American principle of state governance over emerging and sensitive technologies. The inability to bridge these intense partisan divides poses significant hurdles to the bill's passage [NBC News].

On the Senate floor, the AI moratorium has become a flashpoint, reflecting broader concerns about federal overreach and the tech sector's burgeoning influence on policy. The opposition is notably robust among Senate Democrats, all of whom are anticipated to vote against the bill. Moreover, a faction of Republicans has aligned with the opposition, primarily due to the grassroots pressure from child safety advocates and state legislators who fear the erosion of protection frameworks designed at the state level. While the ruling that the AI provision bypasses the usual 60-vote threshold could technically ease the passage, the actual support it gathers remains unpredictable due to the vocal and widespread criticism from various quarters [NBC News].

Proponents of the moratorium argue that a unified national approach to AI regulation is crucial for maintaining competitive parity with global players like China, whose advancements in AI are rapid and state-coordinated. However, the counterargument presented by numerous U.S. lawmakers and interest groups posits that sacrificing state autonomy might stifle localized innovation and the ability to swiftly respond to AI-related ethical issues. Consequently, as the bill awaits a vote, it teeters on a fulcrum of political negotiation, where its future hinges not only on party loyalties but also on the public sentiment stirred by these contentious debates [NBC News].

Economic, Social, and Political Implications of the Bill

The "Big Beautiful Bill," which proposes a 10-year moratorium prohibiting states from establishing their own AI regulations, has garnered intense scrutiny and debate due to its far-reaching economic, social, and political ramifications. Economically, the bill could initially streamline the regulatory process for AI technologies by alleviating businesses from the burden of navigating a myriad of state-specific laws. Proponents, such as OpenAI and Microsoft, argue that this uniformity is essential for fostering innovation and maintaining the U.S.'s competitive edge against nations like China, who are rapidly advancing in AI [NBC News]. However, there is a significant concern that sidelining state regulations could lead to unchecked AI practices, potential legal battles, and a loss of public trust, ultimately imposing economic costs that outweigh initial benefits [TechCrunch].

Socially, the implications of the bill are profound. By limiting state authority over AI regulation, the bill risks undermining protections against AI-induced harms, such as biased algorithms and deepfake technologies, which could disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, including children and minorities [World Economic Forum]. This raises ethical concerns and may exacerbate existing inequalities, hindering efforts to build societal trust in AI technologies. These fears are echoed by civil rights groups and child safety advocates concerned about the erosive impact on public safeguards designed to protect communities from AI-related threats [NBC News].

Politically, the passage of the "Big Beautiful Bill" is likely to escalate tensions between federal and state authorities, as well as among various political factions. The bill has attracted opposition from a wide spectrum of stakeholders, including state officials and civil rights organizations who argue that states are better positioned to address the unique regulatory needs posed by AI within their jurisdictions [NBC News]. The resultant political polarization could spur significant activism and legal challenges, potentially stalling the moratorium's implementation or leading to judicial interventions [TechCrunch]. This ongoing debate will test the resilience of federalism in the U.S. and could redefine the future of AI policy-making in the country.

Public Reactions and Expert Opinions

The proposed 10-year moratorium on state-level AI regulations embedded within the 'Big Beautiful Bill' has sparked a dynamic dialogue between proponents and critics. Many experts have weighed in with strong opinions on both sides of the debate. Proponents, including technology leaders like OpenAI and Microsoft, argue that a federal standard is necessary to prevent a fragmented regulatory environment from stifling innovation. They warn that disparate state laws would not only create compliance headaches but also risk America's competitive edge in AI against countries with more unified policies, like China [TechCrunch]. OpenAI's Chris Lehane has pointed out that inefficiency from a patchwork of state regulations could hinder the growth of critical AI technologies [NBC News].

Critics, however, argue vigorously against the moratorium, fearing that such a sweeping federal intervention might undermine vital consumer protections and state-specific responses to AI-related issues. A broad coalition of civil rights organizations, state legislators, and attorneys general consider the moratorium a blunt tool that prevents states from addressing the unique technological harms facing their citizens [Texas Tribune]. Larry Norden from the Brennan Center expressed concerns about the unprecedented nature of barring states from regulating an emergent technology with profound societal impacts [NBC News]. Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, cautioned that a decade-long blanket moratorium is too extreme, risking an inability to adapt to the fast-evolving AI landscape [TechCrunch].

Public reactions are equally polarized, reflecting a broad spectrum of concerns and support. Many Republicans, like Senators Josh Hawley and Jerry Moran, alongside civil rights groups such as the ACLU and NAACP, have been outspoken in their opposition, warning that the moratorium undermines states’ rights and key safeguards for vulnerable populations [NBC News]. Polling suggests significant public disapproval, with many Americans viewing the moratorium as an overreach that could stifle necessary protections against AI misuse.

On the other side, some industry stakeholders and business communities advocate for the moratorium, emphasizing the need for a cohesive national strategy to streamline innovation and reduce compliance burdens. They argue that uniformity in AI regulation could propel the United States towards leadership in global AI development, stressing that regulatory consistency is key to fostering an attractive climate for investment in cutting-edge technologies [TechCrunch]. Despite the controversy, the ultimate fate of the bill remains uncertain, pending further legislative debates and the impending vote in the Senate.

Future Implications if the Bill Passes

As the legislative fate of the "Big Beautiful Bill" hangs in the balance, its passage could spell significant changes across various sectors. For starters, an approved 10-year AI regulation moratorium could consolidate AI policy under federal oversight rather than a patchwork of state laws, thereby unlocking a more streamlined set of guidelines for AI companies. Proponents believe this shift might accelerate innovation, enabling the United States to compete more effectively with nations like China, whose uninhibited AI development has propelled it to the forefront of the industry. The https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111 highlights the bill's potential to optimize AI strategies nationwide, an advantage in both the economic and technological race.

However, the bill’s approval also brings potential downsides. It risks stifling regional autonomy by precluding states from tailoring AI regulations to local needs. Critics often cite examples like AI's intersection with healthcare, where regional conditions might call for unique legislations to protect citizens effectively. Furthermore, as pointed out by civil rights groups, the absence of state oversight could lead to more significant AI-related harms, including privacy violations and biased algorithmic outcomes. Such concerns underscore the importance of careful deliberation, given that the federal standard might not always align with local insights concerning emerging technologies. Polls and ongoing dialogues reflect a measured public skepticism, as discussed in various reports including https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/27/congress-might-block-state-ai-laws-for-a-decade-heres-what-it-means.

Politically, the bill's passage could escalate tensions within the country's legislative landscape. It might deepen divisions between federal and state authorities while inflaming partisan debates about the proper balance of power. This scenario is further complicated by the bipartisan opposition observed in the Senate, hindering the government's ability to present a united front on AI policy. As the https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111 reveals, the complex interplay of stakeholders in this debate suggests that the passage could prompt more contentious political discussions, possibly influencing future legislative processes.

Future Implications if the Bill Fails

If the "Big Beautiful Bill" fails to pass, it might offer a significant win for states advocating their right to regulate AI technology independently. This could result in a more complex regulatory environment, as state governments develop their individual frameworks, potentially leading to a mosaic of diverse and possibly conflicting regulations. While increased compliance costs and operational challenges could arise for businesses operating across multiple states, this fragmentation might also drive innovation. Companies could experiment with varied approaches tailored to state-specific needs, ultimately contributing to a more robust understanding of AI governance .

In the social realm, a failure of the bill might enhance consumer protection by allowing states to implement regulations that address specific localized harms and vulnerabilities posed by AI. Such tailored regulatory measures could bolster public trust in AI technologies as states demonstrate their commitment to protecting citizens' rights and welfare. The ability to legislate independently would empower states to more promptly respond to emerging ethical concerns and adapt to new technological advancements, offering a more agile approach to managing AI's social impacts .

Politically, the bill's failure could invigorate debates about federalism and the appropriate balance of power between federal and state governments in regulating technological advancements like AI. It would challenge the notion of a centralized regulatory approach and may lead to active participation from a coalition of states aiming to assert their regulatory authority. This might also embolden other sectors to demand greater state-level involvement, highlighting the potential for a more participatory and decentralized governance model. The emphasis on local autonomy could foster a politically diverse landscape, with states leading innovative policy initiatives .

If the bill fails, long-term consequences could include a stronger impetus for developing a comprehensive federal AI policy that reconciles varying state regulations. Eventually, the lessons learned from diverse state initiatives may pave the way for a more unified federal strategy that still respects local nuances and necessities. Such a decentralized approach could foster a climate of cooperation between state and federal entities, potentially resulting in more effective and inclusive AI legislation in the long run .

Long-Term Consequences for AI Innovation and Consumer Protection

The 'Big Beautiful Bill' introduced in Congress, which includes a 10-year moratorium on state AI regulations, marks a significant point of contention in the ongoing debate over AI governance in the United States. Proponents argue that the varied state laws create a 'regulatory patchwork' that hampers AI innovation, thus hurting U.S. competitiveness on a global scale. They contend that a unified federal standard is necessary to foster consistent technological progress, enabling the U.S. to maintain a strategic edge over countries like China, which is rapidly advancing in AI technologies due to its centralized regulatory approach [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

However, this provision has been met with significant opposition from a diverse array of stakeholders concerned about consumer protection. Critics argue that state governments are often better positioned to understand and legislate on issues that directly affect their communities, such as those related to civil rights and child safety. The bipartisan resistance underscores a fundamental disagreement over whether innovation should take precedence over potential risks, including the misuse of AI technologies in critical areas like privacy and security [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/27/congress-might-block-state-ai-laws-for-a-decade-heres-what-it-means/).

The potential long-term consequences of this moratorium could be profound for both AI innovation and consumer protection. If passed, the short-term benefits of reduced compliance costs and accelerated AI development might be overshadowed by long-term risks such as innovation stagnation and decreased consumer trust. This is particularly pertinent in situations where unchecked AI applications could lead to public harm, thereby eroding trust in AI technologies. State-level laws have historically played a crucial role in acting as a check on federal oversight, allowing for more nuanced governance that addresses local needs [Newsweek](https://www.newsweek.com/why-congress-must-pass-ai-regulation-moratorium-states-opinion-2089638).

AI innovation in the U.S. is at a crossroads; the outcome of the bill will arguably shape the competitive landscape. While the centralized regulatory approach proposed may streamline development and provide an economic boost in the short run, there are fears that it could lead to monopolistic practices by large tech companies, ultimately stifling diversity and innovation. Moreover, the absence of a state-specific regulatory framework could result in a slow response to emerging harms, leaving consumers vulnerable [Texas Tribune](https://www.texastribune.org/2025/06/27/ted-cruz-ai-moratorium-reconciliation-republicans-congress-trump/).

In essence, the decision over the 'Big Beautiful Bill' represents more than immediate economic considerations; it is emblematic of a broader ethical debate over the balance between ambitious technological advancement and the safeguarding of consumer rights and personal freedoms. This debate will likely continue to permeate discussions surrounding future AI policies and the essential role of states versus federal governance in ensuring both innovation and protection [TIME](https://time.com/7297580/ai-moratorium-senate-big-beautiful-bill/).

Conclusion: The Uncertain Path Ahead

As we look towards the horizon, the path forward with the "Big Beautiful Bill" remains riddled with uncertainties. While the aim of creating a unified national framework for AI regulation seems beneficial at first glance, the broader implications of a 10-year moratorium present serious concerns. The temporary cessation of state regulations may streamline innovation and standardize national policies, but the potential collateral damage cannot be ignored. The moratorium could unintentionally stifle the rich diversity of state-created solutions tailored to the unique challenges their citizens face. Critics argue that stifling these local regulations might open doors to heightened risks, from unchecked AI innovations causing societal harm to increased vulnerabilities to data privacy issues [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

In the political arena, the moratorium has fueled a poignant debate around federal versus state rights, a central theme in the bigger tapestry of American governance. The outcomes of such legislative directions cannot be underestimated, as their implications stretch beyond immediate AI concerns to influencing the very dynamics of political power distribution. As states bristle at the shifting balance of power, the groundswell of opposition from a diverse coalition, including child safety advocates and civil rights groups, highlights the deep-seated trepidation about losing localized control in addressing AI-related threats [NBC News](https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/tech-news/big-beautiful-bill-ai-moratorium-ted-cruz-pass-vote-rcna215111).

Economically, the potential passage of the bill presents both opportunities and challenges. While streamlining regulations could initially invigorate AI sectors, providing a competitive edge against international rivals such as China, the long-term effects could paint a different picture. Without state interventions, the unchecked progression might lead to consumer distrust and a setback in global standing as ethical considerations catch up with technological advancements. This trade-off exemplifies the complexity of regulatory environments in fostering innovation while simultaneously safeguarding public interests [TechCrunch](https://techcrunch.com/2025/06/27/congress-might-block-state-ai-laws-for-a-decade-heres-what-it-means/).

Ultimately, the "Big Beautiful Bill" serves as a metaphorical crossroads, highlighting the latency between technological progression and regulatory adaptation. The decision facing legislators is steeped in historical context and futuristic aspirations—a testament to the painstaking balance needed to harmonize innovation with public welfare. As the debate unfolds, the cultivation of a regulatory environment that mirrors both contemporary innovation needs and traditional value systems becomes imperative, demanding ongoing dialogue and engagement from all stakeholders involved [Texas Tribune](https://www.texastribune.org/2025/06/27/ted-cruz-ai-moratorium-reconciliation-republicans-congress-trump/).