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The conclusion of a challenging election cycle has resulted in Donald Trump becoming the 47th U.S. president, with Republicans potentially controlling both the Senate and House. Such a shift in power is expected to significantly affect the AI industry, which has largely opposed federal policymaking.
Trump has consistently stated his intention to dismantle Biden’s AI policy framework immediately upon taking office. He has aligned himself with influential figures who have criticised all but the most minimal regulations.
Biden’s AI Executive Order
In October 2023, President Biden issued an executive order on AI due to Congressional inaction. This order, while voluntary, covered various aspects of AI development and implementation. Two key provisions that have drawn criticism from Republicans relate to AI security risks and real-world safety impacts.
One provision requires companies developing powerful AI models to report on their training and security methods, as well as provide vulnerability test results. The other directs the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) to create guidance for identifying and correcting model flaws, including biases.
Critics aligned with Trump argue that the reporting requirements are burdensome and could force companies to reveal trade secrets. Representative Nancy Mace (R-SC) expressed concern that these requirements “could scare away would-be innovators and impede more ChatGPT-type breakthroughs.”
“When I’m re-elected, I will cancel Biden’s artificial intelligence executive order and ban the use of AI to censor the speech of American citizens on day one,” Trump stated.
Potential Replacement for Biden’s AI EO
While Trump’s campaign promised policies to “support AI development rooted in free speech and human flourishing,” specific details were not provided. Some Republicans have suggested focusing on AI’s physical safety risks, such as its potential use in developing bioweapons.
The future of the U.S. AI Safety Institute (AISI), established under Biden’s EO, remains uncertain. A coalition of companies, nonprofits, and universities has called for legislation to codify the AISI before year-end.
With potentially less federal regulation, state governments, particularly in Democratic strongholds, may attempt to fill the regulatory void. Several states have already introduced AI-related legislation.
Trump’s protectionist policies could lead to tighter export controls on AI technologies, particularly concerning China. This could have geopolitical ramifications and potentially enable more authoritarian uses of AI globally.
Proposed tariffs on imports, especially from China, could significantly impact the AI sector economically. Trump’s plans to restrict H-1B visas and embrace oil and gas industries may also indirectly affect the AI industry.