US Gathers Allies for AI Safety Talks; Trump's Vow to Undo Biden's Policy Overshadows Progress

The United States, along with key allies, recently convened in San Francisco to discuss the critical issue of artificial intelligence (AI) safety. The meeting, hosted by the Biden administration, brought together technical experts and government officials from around the world to address the growing concerns surrounding AI-generated deepfakes and other potential misuse of the technology. However, the looming shadow of President-elect Donald Trump's vow to repeal President Joe Biden's signature AI policy has cast uncertainty over the progress made during the summit.

Biden's AI executive order, signed last year, aimed to manage national security risks and prevent discrimination by AI systems. It established the AI Safety Institute at the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST), which has been working to advance research and testing of AI technology. However, Trump has pledged to repeal this order, citing concerns about hindering innovation and imposing "radical leftwing ideas" on the development of AI.



The upcoming Trump administration's approach to AI policy remains unclear, but experts anticipate a more hands-off, deregulatory stance. Adam Thierer, a senior fellow at the R Street Institute, expects agencies to take a "slightly more hands-off approach to AI regulation" and consider alternative approaches besides regulation. This shift could impact AI innovation and safety by potentially reducing government oversight and guidance on AI development. However, it may also lead to more industry-driven innovation and less bureaucratic intervention.



The international cooperation on AI safety, as seen in the San Francisco summit, could be influenced by Trump's stance on AI policy. If Trump follows through on his promise to repeal Biden's AI executive order, it could create uncertainty and slow down the progress made by the Biden administration in establishing global standards for AI safety. However, the international community has shown a strong commitment to AI safety, with nations like Canada, Kenya, Singapore, the UK, and the EU participating in the summit. This suggests that the work on AI safety may continue regardless of Trump's stance, as nations recognize the importance of international cooperation in ensuring the safe and responsible development of AI.

In conclusion, the US gathering of allies to discuss AI safety is a crucial step in addressing the growing concerns surrounding the technology. However, the uncertainty surrounding Trump's vow to undo Biden's AI policy has the potential to overshadow the progress made during the summit. As the incoming administration takes office, it will be essential to monitor their approach to AI policy and its impact on international cooperation and innovation in the field.