Securing U.S. AI Leadership

From May 7–9, 2026, Sunnylands partnered with RAND, one of the world’s leading national security research institutes, to convene a gathering focused on securing U.S. leadership in artificial intelligence. The retreat brought together a rare mix of senior national security officials from six federal agencies, bipartisan congressional senior staff, top researchers, and leaders from several of the world’s most advanced AI research labs. Participants worked through cutting-edge questions at the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, exploring how rapidly evolving technologies could reshape both opportunity and risk. A dynamic “cyber surprise” exercise challenged attendees to respond in real time to a simulated crisis, surfacing shared concerns about how quickly capabilities are advancing—and whether existing systems are prepared to keep pace.

Across candid, off-the-record discussions, participants grappled with what it will take to sustain U.S. leadership in an increasingly competitive global landscape. The dialogue moved beyond technical breakthroughs to emphasize the importance of aligning innovation with security, governance, and international collaboration. By the close of the retreat, attendees had not only deepened their understanding of the challenges ahead, but also built new relationships and a renewed sense of urgency. Many left inspired to pursue ambitious, collaborative solutions—recognizing that while AI holds extraordinary promise, managing its risks will require unprecedented levels of foresight, cooperation, and leadership.