According to multiple foreign media reports, allies of former US President Donald Trump are actively preparing a comprehensive draft executive order on artificial intelligence (AI). The draft aims to accelerate the development of military technology through a series of ambitious "Manhattan Project"-style initiatives and to address the "unnecessary and burdensome regulations" that hinder innovation. This move is seen as a signal that Trump's potential second administration will strongly promote AI policies favorable to Silicon Valley investors and companies.
According to insiders, the framework of this AI executive order, which is still in the drafting stage, not only establishes an "industry-led" assessment agency to ensure the security of AI models and counter foreign threats, but also sets the strategic goal of "making America the leader in AI", in sharp contrast to the AI security testing measures emphasized by the current Biden administration. The AI executive order issued by the Biden administration last year focused on conducting rigorous security reviews of next-generation AI systems using emergency powers, while the draft by Trump's allies focuses more on promoting innovation and reducing regulatory constraints.
It is worth noting that the Republican Party, during the preparation process for the recent national convention, expressed its intention to repeal Biden's AI executive order, believing that the order hinders AI innovation and accusing it of "imposing radical left-wing ideology". The Republican platform emphasizes support for AI development based on principles of free speech and human prosperity, providing a more relaxed and free environment for the AI industry.
Although Trump's campaign team has not directly confirmed the authenticity of this AI executive order draft, a series of signs indicate that Trump's relationship with Silicon Valley is quietly warming up. From Trump's recent participation in a podcast hosted by Silicon Valley tech investors to attending fundraising events organized by former PayPal executives, it is evident that his support in the tech industry has increased. Trump's mention of conversations with "geniuses" in Silicon Valley during the podcast further strengthens this trend.
In addition, Trump's allies include influential technology companies and investors in the AI field. Some technology companies with deep cooperation with the Pentagon, such as Anduril, Palantir, and Scale, have executives who support Trump and expect to have more opportunities in AI military investment. At the same time, conservative traditional foundations are also actively preparing new AI policies as part of the "2025 Project" aimed at promoting US AI research and development and limiting China's ability to access related technologies.
However, as AI technology becomes more widespread and influential, finding a balance between promoting innovation and ensuring safety has become a challenge for all policymakers. Whether the AI executive order draft by Trump's allies can gain widespread support and become actual policy in the future remains to be seen. At the same time, the regulatory attitude of regulatory agencies towards the AI field will also be a key factor influencing the direction of policies.
It is worth mentioning that although Trump's campaign team has maintained a cautious attitude in response to external comments, Trump himself and his allies' active actions in the AI field undoubtedly add new variables and highlights to the upcoming US presidential election.
