Trump publishes AI action plan to accelerate innovation

In an effort to strengthen America's position in artificial intelligence, President Donald Trump released the AI Action Plan on a Wednesday in January 2024. This comprehensive 28-page document was part of a broader initiative to remove regulatory obstacles and promote innovation in the increasingly crucial AI sector. Recognizing the significance of AI as a transformative technology comparable to space exploration, the plan outlines a vision for maintaining U.S. dominance in technology. It emphasizes three key strategies: accelerating innovation in AI, developing robust American AI infrastructure, and leading global diplomacy regarding AI security. As part of the plan, the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) will be charged with soliciting input from the public to identify federal regulations that hinder AI advancement. The plan also calls for a reassessment of current language used in the AI Risk Management Framework, particularly calling for the exclusion of terms like "diversity, equity, and inclusion." This reflects a clear focus on enabling a more business-friendly environment for American AI companies by attempting to eliminate perceived systemic biases in federal guidelines. Critics of the action plan have expressed concerns regarding its mixed messages. While the deregulatory approach aims to enhance innovation and participation in the AI field, some experts warn that the underlying industrial policy could deter private investment and stifle productivity. For example, Scott Lincicome of the Cato Institute noted the challenges Intel faced despite receiving significant government support. There is skepticism regarding whether taxpayer funding is necessary given the substantial private investment—reported at $109 billion in 2024—driving the sector's growth, dwarfing China's investments substantially. Nevertheless, the plan's focus on fostering an environment resistant to 'woke AI' reflects a political approach to AI governance. It highlights the administration's belief that a clear distinction between objective AI metrics and ideologically biased frameworks can revive innovation. As the implications of this plan unfold, the broader conversation around regulation, investment, and ethical AI practices continues, indicating the potential for conflict between governmental policies and industry needs. The AI Action Plan aims to provide a strategic guide for addressing the challenging landscape of AI technology in America and beyond, balancing between fostering innovation and imposing necessary regulations as the technology matures.