TechCrunch Daily Crunch Fusion startup Helion in talks with OpenAI
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Mar 24, 2026 Discussion covers Elizabeth Warren's criticism of the Pentagon's move against Anthropic and the company's stance on military uses of AI. A startup-focused segment explores talks for OpenAI to secure part of Helion's future fusion power and Helion's scaling plans. Also covered are DoorDash's temporary relief payments for drivers and a developer tools acquisition search.
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Warren Calls DoD Action Retaliation
- Senator Elizabeth Warren labeled the Pentagon's designation of Anthropic as a supply chain risk 'retaliation' after Anthropic refused military-use concessions.
- The dispute centers on Anthropic limiting use for mass surveillance and lethal autonomous weapon targeting without human control.
DoorDash Temporary Gas Relief For Drivers
- DoorDash launched a temporary relief program through April 26 offering weekly payments to drivers who drive 125+ miles weekly, plus extra cash back for Crimson card users.
- Estimated savings translate to $1–$1.50 per gallon, with up to 10% extra cash back boosting savings to ~$1.90 per gallon.
OpenAI In Talks To Buy Helion Fusion Power
- Helion is negotiating to sell fusion power to OpenAI, potentially securing 12.5% of Helion's output (5 GW by 2030, 50 GW by 2035).
- Each Helion reactor is 50 MW, implying 800 reactors by 2030 and 8,000+ by 2035 if targets hold.