In a significant deviation from the growing bipartisan consensus among US lawmakers calling for tighter controls on artificial intelligence, Donald Trump has emerged as a prominent voice opposing regulatory measures. Describing the apprehensions surrounding AI dangers as a “hoax” and a “scam,” the former president argued that existing federal authorities already possess sufficient criminal and regulatory leverage over tech firms.
This position places the White House at odds with members of his own party, including former adviser Steve Bannon and Republican Texas Senator Ted Cruz, as well as with leaders of major AI corporations who have expressed caution. Instead, Trump’s views align closely with those of David Sacks, a billionaire venture capitalist who previously served as the administration’s czar for AI and cryptocurrency.
Sacks has been a vocal and forceful critic of predictions regarding an imminent AI catastrophe, challenging the narrative that has driven legislative efforts across the aisle. While many political figures and industry heads advocate for new safeguards, Trump’s refusal to entertain restrictions highlights a distinct ideological divide within the Republican Party and between the administration and tech regulators.
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