Cruz to Prioritize AI, Jobs, Space as Senate Commerce Chair

Sen. Ted Cruz plans to prioritize job growth, artificial intelligence development, and commercial space activity as he prepares to lead one of the chamber’s most powerful committees next Congress.

Senate Minority Whip John Thune‘s Wednesday win as the next Republican leader of the chamber elevates Cruz to chair the coveted Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. Thune (R-S.D.), who held seniority on the panel, was expected to reclaim the chairmanship had he lost the leadership contest.

Cruz, the committee’s current ranking member, had his sights set on the top post after he won re-election in Texas and Republicans took ...