Trump delays AI oversight executive order following Big Tech intervention

President Donald Trump has postponed the signing of an executive order regarding government oversight of artificial intelligence, following last-minute intervention from major technology industry leaders. The delay occurred after significant pressure from figures including Elon Musk, Mark Zuckerberg, and former US AI and crypto czar David Sacks, according to reports from CNN and The Washington Post.

The executive order, originally drafted to compel AI companies to share advanced models with the government 90 days prior to public release, had been modified to make participation voluntary. Despite this concession, industry leaders argued that the proposed framework could hinder the development of AI technology, which has become integral to the US economy. Anonymous insiders told The Washington Post that these concerns were central to the decision to halt the process.

The postponement came shortly after the White House had issued invitations for a signing ceremony scheduled for the previous afternoon. Trump stated that he wanted to ensure the measure would not act as a "blocker" to technological advancement. "I really thought that that [the bill] could have been a blocker, and I want to make sure that it's not," the President said, indicating dissatisfaction with certain aspects of the draft.

White House officials were reportedly taken aback by the sudden reversal, particularly given that Sacks had previously indicated he could accept the order. The administration had previously maintained a hands-off approach to AI regulation, with Trump stating in July that the government must allow the technology to thrive and avoid "foolish rules and even stupid rules." However, the administration may have shifted its stance following voter backlash regarding job losses and high electricity bills, as well as concerns over cybersecurity threats posed by models such as Anthropic's Mythos.

It remains unclear how or when the executive order will be revised and signed. While sources suggest the bill is likely to be revisited, no timeline has been provided for a new draft. The White House has yet to specify the next steps for the AI oversight proposal, leaving the regulatory landscape for the sector in a state of uncertainty.