Despite growing political tensions between the United States and China, artificial intelligence (AI) scientists from both countries continue to work together. Policymakers in Beijing and Washington see AI as a key part of their strategic rivalry, with export controls on advanced chips and strict scrutiny of foreign investments. This has created a perception that AI development is a zero-sum game, where one country's gain is another's loss. However, many developers and researchers on the ground maintain collaboration across borders. They share knowledge, attend joint conferences, and co-author papers, focusing on scientific progress rather than political divides. This cooperation is vital for advancing AI, as major breakthroughs often require diverse perspectives and global talent. While governments emphasize security and national interests, scientists argue that open exchange is essential for innovation. The divide in policy does not fully extend to the research community, which continues to find ways to work together. This underscores the complex relationship between technology and geopolitics. The full impact of these tensions on AI development remains to be seen, but for now, many researchers are committed to keeping science separate from politics.