The Digester

Google and OpenAI file amicus brief backing Anthropic against federal ban

Mar 10th 2026

A 37-signatory amicus brief from engineers and researchers at Google and OpenAI supports Anthropic’s lawsuits challenging the federal government’s authority to label and blacklist the company as a national security supply chain risk.

  • Employees from Google and OpenAI joined a 37-signatory amicus brief supporting Anthropic.
  • Anthropic sued to block the government from labeling it a "supply chain risk to national security" and restricting partnerships.
  • The brief argues Anthropic was justified in setting "red lines" on mass surveillance and fully autonomous weapons.
  • Signatories contend the government's action is an improper and arbitrary use of power with serious industry consequences.
  • Notable signatories include Google chief scientist Jeff Dean and multiple engineers and researchers from both companies.
  • OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has publicly criticized the government decision while acknowledging optics issues around his company’s Pentagon deal.