Trump calls AI risks a 'hoax,' blasts data center opposition
President Donald Trump has dismissed concerns about artificial intelligence risks as a 'hoax' and criticized opposition to data centers, arguing that strong presidential leadership is sufficient to manage the technology. His stance contrasts with calls from tech leaders like Anthropic's Dario Amodei and OpenAI's Sam Altman for greater government oversight and slower AI development. Trump maintains that over-regulation could hinder American competitiveness against China and harm economic growth, despite voter opposition to data center construction.
President Donald Trump dismissed warnings about the dangers of artificial intelligence as a 'SICK conspiracy' and a 'hoax,' stating that his presence in the Oval Office would serve as a sufficient 'guardrail' against rogue AI. His comments push back against prominent tech leaders, including Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei and OpenAI's Sam Altman, who have advocated for slower AI development and increased government oversight. Trump cited an instance where his administration allegedly stopped Anthropic 'from doing bad' things, despite the Pentagon previously labeling Anthropic a security risk and banning one of its models.
Trump further argued that calls for regulation could drive AI companies into 'oblivion and bankruptcy,' and he linked the opposition to AI and data centers to a conspiracy benefiting China. While some, like Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, support Trump's view that AI risks are overblown, others, including former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel, have criticized Trump's perceived inaction on AI regulation. The debate over AI oversight and the economic impact of a potential slowdown in AI buildout, including demand for data centers, has become a political issue ahead of November's midterm elections, with voters expressing concerns about job losses and data center construction. House Speaker Mike Johnson indicated that AI companies might meet with Trump at the White House soon to discuss responsibilities and the government's role in regulation.