Former President Donald Trump makes his first major technology policy move since returning to the White House, targeting artificial intelligence regulations.
According to AP News, Trump signed an executive order Thursday aimed at removing what his administration considers barriers to AI innovation, effectively dismantling key elements of Biden's previous AI regulations while emphasizing the development of systems "free from ideological bias."
The executive order commands a comprehensive review of all AI-related policies implemented during Biden's presidency, particularly those stemming from his 2023 directive. This sweeping examination extends to regulations, directives, and other governmental actions that Trump's administration believes may impede technological advancement and American leadership in the AI sector.
The new directive establishes a 180-day deadline for creating an AI action plan to be overseen by White House technology and science officials. David Sacks, a venture capitalist and former PayPal executive, will serve as Special Advisor for AI and Crypto, spearheading these efforts.
Trump's administration argues that Biden's previous requirements placed unnecessary burdens on AI companies. Their stance reflects a fundamental shift in regulatory approach, prioritizing rapid development over restrictive oversight.
The order specifically targets Biden-era requirements that mandated federal agencies demonstrate their AI tools weren't causing public harm. These provisions will now undergo revision and reissuance under Trump's new framework.
Former White House Office of Science and Technology Policy acting director Alondra Nelson expressed concerns about the order's implications, stating:
In 60 days, we'll know which Americans' rights and safety the Trump Administration believes deserves to be protected in the age of AI, and if there will be a level playing field for every technologist, developer, and innovator or just the tech billionaires.
The executive order aligns with Trump's campaign promises and reflects perspectives shared by his adviser Elon Musk, who has previously criticized what he terms "woke AI." This approach marks a significant departure from Biden's focus on preventing discriminatory practices in AI applications.
Americans for Responsible Innovation's executive director, Eric Gastfriend, characterized the order as preliminary, noting:
Today's executive order is a placeholder until the administration has a chance to develop a full strategy for executing that vision.
Under Trump's directive, government agencies have already suspended work on AI policies initiated during Biden's presidency. This pause affects various initiatives, including requirements for tech companies to disclose details about powerful AI models before their public release.
The executive order emphasizes "human flourishing" and economic competitiveness while reducing regulatory oversight. This approach represents a stark contrast to Biden's comprehensive framework that addressed concerns about AI's impact on cybersecurity, education, and workplace dynamics.
Trump's recent actions suggest a broader strategy to reshape America's technological landscape, particularly in artificial intelligence development and implementation.
The executive order signed by Trump on Thursday marks a decisive shift in U.S. AI policy, prioritizing rapid technological advancement over regulatory safeguards. By dismantling Biden-era regulations and establishing new directives focused on innovation and competitiveness, the administration aims to reshape the landscape of AI development in America. The implementation of this order, alongside the upcoming 180-day AI action plan, will determine how the balance between technological progress and public protection evolves under Trump's leadership.
