Read the AI executive order Trump decided not to sign

A draft of an executive order regarding artificial intelligence that President Donald Trump was poised to sign has been unexpectedly postponed. The document, obtained by POLITICO, aimed to address significant concerns about the potential risks posed by advanced AI technologies, particularly those developed by companies like Anthropic. The fear is that such technologies could lead to catastrophic cyberattacks if they were to fall into the wrong hands. The proposed order included plans for a voluntary oversight system where developers of advanced AI models could submit their products for federal review up to 90 days before their release. However, it was clearly stated that participation in these reviews would be optional. The draft explicitly mentioned, "Nothing in this section shall be construed to authorize the creation of a mandatory governmental licensing, preclearance, or permitting requirement for the development, publication, release, or distribution of new AI models, including frontier models." Despite the voluntary nature of the reviews, there are concerns that they could eventually evolve into mandatory requirements, as noted by former Trump AI advisor David Sacks. The draft also included provisions aimed at addressing illegal activities involving AI, directing the attorney general to enforce the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act against those who misuse AI to gain unauthorized access or inflict damage on computer systems. Prior to the postponement, administration officials had briefed key technology companies about the order and had invited top AI executives to attend the signing ceremony at the White House. However, Trump expressed reservations, stating, "I didn't like certain aspects of it," and voiced apprehensions that the order could hinder U.S. advancements in the global AI race, particularly against China. The White House has not yet indicated any possible revisions to the order or when a signing might take place.