> a) Given how geopolitical semiconductors and AI are right now. Why he is running around the world running his mouth seemingly without the cooperation of the US government.
As an American citizen you don't need to cooperate with the US government to talk to other people.
> Any citizen of the United States, wherever he may be, who, without authority of the United States, directly or indirectly commences or carries on any correspondence or intercourse with any foreign government or any officer or agent thereof, with intent to influence the measures or conduct of any foreign government or of any officer or agent thereof, in relation to any disputes or controversies with the United States, or to defeat the measures of the United States, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than three years, or both.
As an American citizen you don't need to cooperate with the US government to talk to other people.