Nearly 150 retired judges take Anthropic's side in Pentagon fight

Core Viewpoint - A group of 149 retired judges supports Anthropic in its dispute with the Pentagon, arguing that the Department of War's classification of the AI company as a "supply chain risk" is unfounded and unlawful [1][6]. Group 1: Judges' Position - The judges assert that the Department of War misinterpreted the statute and ignored necessary procedures in labeling Anthropic [1]. - They emphasize that no one is forcing the Department to contract with Anthropic, as both parties have agreed that the Department is not interested in the services offered by Anthropic [2]. - The judges argue that the Department cannot use the law to punish Anthropic in its dealings with other government agencies and private businesses [6]. Group 2: Background Context - President Donald Trump ordered federal agencies to cease using Anthropic's technology, labeling it a "radical left AI company" [7]. - Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that no contractor or partner of the US military should engage in commercial activities with Anthropic, citing it as a "supply-chain risk to national security" [7]. - Anthropic expressed concern that the Department's actions were causing "real and irreparable harm" to the company and pressured its customers to switch to rival AI providers [7].