Trump’s new AI action plan marks pivot away from safety in favor of market leadership

Key developments: President Donald Trump has signed a new executive order focused on establishing American dominance in artificial intelligence, while simultaneously working to dismantle previous AI regulations.

• The executive order mandates the creation of an Artificial Intelligence Action Plan within 180 days
• The plan aims to enhance America’s global leadership position in AI technology
• Trump’s administration is specifically targeting the removal of AI policies implemented during the Biden presidency

Policy objectives: The new executive order outlines three primary goals for American AI development and implementation.

1. Promoting human flourishing through AI advancement
2. Enhancing economic competitiveness
3. Strengthening national security measures

Regulatory rollback: The move represents a significant shift from the previous administration’s approach to AI oversight and regulation.

• Trump recently revoked Biden’s 2023 executive order on AI safety
• The revoked order had required safety test disclosures from AI developers
• Biden’s regulations specifically targeted AI systems that could impact national security, the economy, public health, or safety
• The previous requirements were aligned with the Defense Production Act

Administrative direction: Trump has tasked key officials with implementing the new AI strategy.

• The president’s AI adviser and national security assistant are leading the regulatory reform efforts
• They are specifically charged with identifying and removing Biden-era AI policies and regulations
• The 180-day timeline suggests an aggressive approach to policy implementation

Strategic implications: This executive order signals a fundamental shift in how the U.S. government approaches AI development and regulation, moving from a safety-first framework to one prioritizing technological advancement and market leadership.

• The removal of mandatory safety testing requirements could accelerate AI development
• The focus on global dominance may intensify international competition in AI technology
• Questions remain about how this deregulatory approach will balance innovation with public safety concerns