Reactions to Trump’s AI Accord in Washington

Former President Donald Trump’s AI accord is stirring discussions in Washington. In an analysis by The Hill reporters Julia Shapero and Mallory Wilson, the ‘self-policing’ approach to regulating artificial intelligence is under scrutiny as safety concerns about the technology grow.

Trump advocates for industry officials to regulate themselves, while critics argue for more oversight. Some view the accord as a positive step, though not sufficient to address AI’s potential risks. Among those voicing concern is an expert noting the administration’s sincerity but cautioning that the pledge offers no solution to AI’s risks.

Major industry players signed the document, which outlines four layers of control and auditing. The agreement tasks AI companies with establishing strong internal controls, designating an internal team to check these controls, working with external auditors to evaluate adherence, and assigning an independent board committee to supervise operating team reports.

Some lawmakers, including members of Trump’s party, have mixed feelings about the accord. Senator Josh Hawley from Missouri sees it as a ‘good step’ but remains skeptical about trusting AI executives fully.

For more on Washington’s stance on the AI agreement, readers are invited to subscribe to The Hill’s Insider. The Technology newsletter, authored by Julia Shapero and Miranda Nazzaro, covers developments from Capitol Hill to Silicon Valley.

Essential Reads

The impact of policy on the tech sector now and in the future:

• Progressives Push Legislation Against Automatic License Plate Readers: Lawmakers like Bernie Sanders, Jeff Merkley, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez introduced the Ban Flock Act. The bill would stop federal agencies from using automatic license plate readers and restrict grant funds for entities with ALPR contracts. It also provides people with the right to sue the federal government over these surveillance tools.
• NASA’s Robots for Future Lunar Missions: At the Johnson Space Center, NASA’s Dexterous Robotics Team is developing robots to support human crews on future moon missions. These robots, designed to function in human-centric environments or alongside people, aim to enhance mission flexibility.
• Amazon’s Community Investments: Amazon intends to invest $1 billion in data center communities over five years. Initiatives include free community college, workforce training, and energy efficiency projects, reflecting the company’s response to concerns about data center developments.

The Refresh: Tech and Other Topics

• Anthropic Highlights Government Risks: The AI company warned that government attitudes might damage customer relations.
• OpenAI Appoints Former Trump Official: The company hired a top Trump AI official, focusing on national security aspects.

Crypto Corner

Hester Peirce, known in the industry as ‘crypto mom,’ is leaving the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Her tenure was marked by advocacy for digital assets. Peirce’s departure follows a changing climate toward cryptocurrencies in Washington.

Her resignation underscores the United States’ allegiance to liberty and innovation. With her exit, the SEC is left with Chair Paul Atkins and Commissioner Mark Uyeda, both Republican appointees, operating a typically five-member bipartisan commission now reduced over the past two years.

As the SEC adjusted its quorum rule, allowing one commissioner to constitute a quorum when only one can serve, Peirce expressed pride in her service, emphasizing American ideals of freedom and innovation.

Additional News

Additional reads include:

• Paramount and Warner Bros. New Name: With their merger, Paramount and Warner Bros. Discovery will operate under a new name, as announced by David Ellison.