Obama Warns on AI in Private Hands, Urges Democrats to Act
Barack Obama cautioned a closed Democratic fundraiser last Thursday about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) operating largely in private hands. According to a partial transcript obtained by The New York Times, Obama stated:
"It’s moving very fast in private hands, and if we don’t get on top of it, I think it can be dangerous."
His advice was directed towards Hakeem Jeffries, the House minority leader, assuming Jeffries becomes speaker after the November elections. Obama recommended that Democrats develop a framework for a public conversation on AI:
"Once you are speaker, I would strongly urge that the Democrats put together a framework for a very public conversation."
Obama’s Vision for AI Policy
Obama envisions AI as a central theme in the 2028 presidential campaign, with candidates proposing plans addressing both safety and economic disruption. He urged that AI be included in the party’s platform. Notably, he did not provide specific details on regulatory mechanisms or policy positions.
A Private Fundraiser Turns Public
These remarks were made at a private fundraiser, but the transcript was released by Obama’s office, making them public. Former President Obama, by sharing these comments intentionally, seems to be signaling his concerns about AI governance.
Contrasting with Current Administration Policies
This statement stands in contrast to the current administration’s efforts to preempt state AI regulation with a national standard and its opposition to G20 institutions governing AI. Any framework Obama proposes would need to navigate these existing policies.
Existing Frameworks and Industry Pressure
A framework similar to what Obama suggests already exists, but it is not public. AI model reviews in the US are conducted in secret, with only large companies having access to the rules. Additionally, OpenAI has requested Congress to establish national safety requirements before its November adjournment, while over a thousand AI company employees signed a letter asking the US government to slow down AI development.
The Path Forward
Obama’s contribution sets a deadline and a messenger for AI policy, ultimately hinging on Democrats winning control of the House in the upcoming elections.