Case Studies

US Congress AI for Legislators

Building digital understanding for informed policy and decision making

The Challenge

The Challenge

To equip Senators, Members and Senior Staffers with a deeper understanding of the technologies shaping future policy. Under the current administration, there was a growing need for legislators to strengthen their digital literacy and ensure informed, balanced decision making around emerging technologies such as AI, data and cybersecurity.

The Approach

The Approach

Decoded designed a tailored half-day workshop for Members of Congress focused on demystifying four core technology domains: big data, machine learning, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. These areas were identified as the most critical knowledge gaps requiring immediate attention. The interactive session combined clear explanation with practical, hands-on exercises to bring each topic to life and enable meaningful discussion across both technical and non-technical participants.

Programme Design

The workshop provided:

  • An accessible introduction to data, AI and cybersecurity concepts in the context of public policy.
  • Practical demonstrations to show how these technologies operate and their potential real-world implications.
  • Facilitated discussions linking technological innovation to governance, regulation and ethics.
  • A foundation of shared understanding to support ongoing Committee-specific deep dives.

Following the introductory session, Senators and Members participated in follow-up sessions focused on the technologies most relevant to the Standing and Select Committees on which they served.

The Impact

The programme established a collective digital literacy baseline within Congress, giving participants the confidence to engage in informed debate and policy development around emerging technologies. Legislators were able to:

 

  • Understand key terminology and principles across data, AI and cybersecurity.
  • Recognise the societal, ethical and economic implications of technology adoption.
  • Strengthen dialogue between technical experts and policymakers.
  • Apply digital insight to committee discussions and legislative priorities.

By bridging the knowledge gap between technology and governance, the programme helped US lawmakers make better-informed decisions in a rapidly advancing digital era.

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Learner Feedback

Exceeded my expectations! I frequently attend briefs that are either way over my head or too basic – but this was at a perfect level. The hands-on experiences were very useful and the presentation style is great.”

Senior Staffer, US House of Representatives

 

 

 

 

Learn More

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