Senator Mark Warner Calls Quantum America’s “Sputnik Moment” in Address to Quantum World Congress
U.S. Senator Mark Warner (D-VA), Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, addressed attendees of Quantum World Congress (QWC) 2025 with a stark message: quantum technology is America’s “Sputnik moment” — and it is not a race the United States can afford to lose.
Though unable to attend in person, Senator Warner welcomed participants via video message, underscoring the stakes for national security, economic competitiveness, and critical infrastructure.
“Quantum technology is a foundational technology,” Warner said. “It will transform our national security, economic competitiveness, and critical infrastructure. The stakes are high, and we have to ensure that the United States remains the leader in this field.”
A Foundational Technology with Global Stakes
Warner emphasized quantum’s ability to drive breakthroughs across sectors — from medical research and climate modeling to logistics and intelligence capabilities. He noted that rival nations like China and Russia are investing heavily in quantum, further elevating the urgency for U.S. leadership.
Virginia’s Quantum Advantage
The Senator highlighted Virginia’s unique role in building the national quantum ecosystem. With its mix of federal labs, defense contractors, startups, and world-class universities like George Mason University and Virginia Tech, the Commonwealth offers a powerful platform for accelerating research, commercialization, and deployment.
“This concentration of talent and resources gives us an incredible head start, and we must leverage it to accelerate our progress,” Warner said.
Partnerships and Workforce Development
Warner stressed that quantum progress requires strong partnerships across government, industry, and academia — and a diverse talent pipeline that extends beyond physicists. He pointed to the importance of workforce programs that range from community college training for technicians to university curricula for researchers.
A Federal Commitment
Closing his remarks, Warner pledged his support for quantum innovation through legislative action and expanded federal collaboration.
“Quantum technology has tremendous potential. In short, it can solve some of the world’s most complex challenges,” he said. “I’m committed to supporting our quantum ecosystem through legislative action and increased federal collaboration.”
As Quantum World Congress continues, Warner’s remarks echoed the central theme of the gathering: ensuring that the U.S. and its partners move swiftly and responsibly to lead the global quantum future.