Congress pushes AI oversight as President Trump dismisses concerns
U.S. lawmakers from both parties are urging new regulations and a federal agency to monitor artificial intelligence, while President Trump called recent safety warnings a hoax.
Congressional leaders from both parties are intensifying calls for federal oversight of artificial intelligence after recent warnings from researchers about the technology’s potential risks. A University of Maryland survey found that 85% of Democrats and 79% of Republicans support creating a new agency to regulate AI, and a similar majority favor mandatory safety tests for systems that make critical decisions.
Democratic Representative Don Beyer criticized President Trump’s social-media remarks that dismissed the concerns as a “hoax” and “conspiracy,” saying the president’s comments could be judged harshly by history. Beyer urged Congress to remain in session to advance pending AI legislation, arguing that industry self-regulation has historically failed to protect the public.
Republican lawmakers are also proposing measures. Representative Jay Obernolte, who is leading a bipartisan effort, said any rules must balance protecting Americans from malicious use of AI with preserving the technology’s economic benefits. Senator John Kennedy announced plans for legislation requiring AI firms to install a “kill switch” in their models.
Former President Barack Obama, speaking on the issue, warned that voluntary standards set by a few tech companies would be insufficient and called for proactive government action. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer asked the administration for a classified briefing on AI and for cooperation to block advanced AI chips from reaching China.
Industry executives have expressed openness to greater oversight, though many policymakers remain skeptical of proposals that would allow companies to set their own standards. Experts such as Amba Kak of the AI Now Institute described the current debate as a “policy window” to enact meaningful regulations.
Despite the momentum, some legislators doubt Congress can act swiftly. Democrat Jared Moskowitz said the chamber has shown a lack of capacity to address the issue, and Republican Senator Rick Scott questioned whether Congress could prioritize AI regulation amid other legislative challenges.