AI Policy Stalled as White House Disagreements Halt Federal Response

The Trump administration's efforts to establish federal guidelines for artificial intelligence (AI) have been delayed due to internal disputes among officials, amid growing concerns over the rapid advancement of AI technology. As President Trump prepares for his China summit, the lack of consensus within the White House has slowed progress on implementing safety reviews and regulatory frameworks for cutting-edge AI models like Anthropic's Mythos.

The administration had initially discussed the idea of creating an "FDA for AI" to oversee the safety of new AI systems, but this proposal has faced pushback from key figures, including White House chief of staff Susie Wiles and former AI advisor David Sacks. National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett's suggestion of a drug-like approval process was quickly downplayed, highlighting the lack of unity within the administration. Meanwhile, officials are grappling with whether to prioritize AI testing under the Department of Commerce or national security agencies, further complicating efforts to establish a cohesive strategy.

Industry leaders and lawmakers are urging the White House to act swiftly, as the release of advanced AI models raises concerns about potential risks, particularly from Chinese developments. Rep. Josh Gottheimer, co-chair of the House Democratic Commission on Artificial Intelligence and the Innovation Economy, emphasized the need for clarity and warned that bureaucratic delays could leave the U.S. vulnerable to emerging threats. With time running out, stakeholders are closely watching whether the White House will issue executive orders or if Congress will take legislative action to address AI's evolving landscape.