ChatGPT dominates early AI spending in Congress as lawmakers weigh regulation

• ChatGPT represented $100,580 of $113,740 in identified AI spending (88% of dollars, 96% of transactions), with Anthropic's Claude a distant second at $13,160 across 37 transactions
• Democratic member offices spent $54,165 on AI tools compared to $15,782 by Republican offices, with ChatGPT purchases appearing in 44 Democratic and 27 Republican offices
• OpenAI increased federal lobbying spending by 82.5% year-over-year to $1 million in Q1 2026, while Anthropic more than tripled spending to nearly $1.6 million, as both companies compete for government contracts

Summary: ChatGPT Dominates Congressional AI Spending as Regulation Debates Continue

Key Findings

OpenAI's ChatGPT captured approximately 88% of identifiable AI spending in the House of Representatives during the year ending March 31, 2026. A CNBC analysis of House disbursement records revealed at least $113,740 in total AI vendor spending, with ChatGPT accounting for $100,580 across 798 transactions. Anthropic's Claude ranked second with $13,160 across 37 transactions.

Congressional Adoption

ChatGPT purchases appeared in at least 71 House member offices—roughly one in six. Democratic offices outspent Republican offices by more than 3:1, with Democrats spending $54,165 compared to $15,782 by Republicans. However, these figures significantly understate total AI usage, as they exclude free accounts, AI bundled into broader software contracts like Microsoft Copilot, and most Senate spending.

Usage and Applications

Congressional staff utilize AI tools to summarize legislation, draft memos, prepare hearing materials, respond to constituents, and manage social media. Rep. Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.) reported saving "dozens and dozens of hours every week" using ChatGPT to create searchable legislative databases and briefing materials.

Market Implications

OpenAI's dominance stems from early adoption through the 2023 House Digital Service pilot program and strategic partnerships with congressional training organizations. Both OpenAI and Anthropic have significantly increased lobbying efforts, with OpenAI spending $1 million (up 82.5% year-over-year) and Anthropic spending $1.6 million (tripling previous spending) in Q1 2026.

The spending patterns raise concerns about vendor favoritism and highlight the competitive race among AI companies for government contracts as lawmakers shape future AI regulation and procurement policies.