President-elect Donald Trump’s announcement to repeal President Joe Biden’s AI policy upon assuming office has ignited significant debate over the future trajectory of artificial intelligence in the United States. While Trump has not disclosed specific alternatives, critics fear that dismantling the existing framework could disrupt ongoing initiatives aimed at addressing AI safety, innovation, and international collaboration.
Biden’s AI policy has focused on fostering innovation while mitigating risks such as AI-generated deepfakes and cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Stakeholders in the tech community worry that abandoning these measures without a comprehensive replacement might jeopardise efforts to establish ethical and safety standards for AI development.
This political shift raises broader questions about the stability of AI governance, particularly as the United States seeks to maintain its leadership in the global AI race. Many experts argue that consistency in policies is critical for sustaining trust among international allies and private-sector collaborators.
International Talks Highlight Need for AI Collaboration
As Trump’s plans fuel uncertainty, an international summit on AI safety in San Francisco is addressing the urgent need for global cooperation. Hosted by the Biden administration, the event brings together government officials, scientists, and AI experts from nations such as the UK, Canada, and Australia. Discussions focus on creating voluntary safety standards and countering threats like deepfakes and malicious AI use.
U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasised the importance of collective action in shaping AI’s future. She noted that the opportunities AI offers must be balanced against its risks, urging international stakeholders to unite behind shared principles.
The summit underscores a bipartisan understanding that AI safety is a global issue transcending national borders. Experts agree that addressing these challenges requires long-term collaboration, regardless of political transitions.
While Trump’s proposed repeal signals potential shifts in U.S. policy, the global meeting in San Francisco serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility to ensure AI’s safe and ethical development.