Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont has introduced the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act, which would temporarily halt advanced AI development amid growing concerns about uncontrolled capabilities.
Sanders warned that “there is a good chance that human beings will lose control over AI,” emphasizing the unknown risks and the possibility of catastrophic outcomes. He urged a slowdown, stating that scientists’ warnings about a cataclysmic impact demand serious attention.
The proposed legislation is expected to be spearheaded by Congress rather than the Trump administration, which generally favors unfettered AI growth to maintain U.S. dominance over competitors like China.
President Donald Trump expressed no concern about AI causing human extinction, instead focusing on the strategic importance of leading the AI race. He emphasized that falling behind could place the United States at a disadvantage globally.
Tensions between the White House and Anthropic have escalated after the company declined to provide its AI models for military use. The administration labeled Anthropic a “radical left, woke company” and identified it as a supply‑chain risk—a designation later ruled unlawful by a federal judge.
David Sacks, a former AI adviser to Trump, has also been critical of Anthropic, while OpenAI has maintained a more cooperative stance with the administration. OpenAI’s president described the relationship as “a very good partnership” during the launch of a new model.
OpenAI declined to comment on the broader regulatory discussions.
At a recent conference in San Francisco, industry focus remained primarily on profit opportunities, with many executives prioritizing growth over existential concerns or potential governmental restrictions.
OpenAI, valued at $852 billion, had planned an initial public offering but CEO Sam Altman postponed the move, citing safety considerations and labeling the timing “ill‑advised.” He indicated a possible 2027 launch date in a recent interview.
Investors are now awaiting Anthropic’s S‑1 filing, with many questioning when the company might achieve profitability.
When asked about fears of an impending global crisis, Sid Sheth, CEO of chipmaker d‑Matrix, responded simply, “No.”
