Trump considers state equity in AI firms; to meet industry leaders

President Donald Trump is exploring the idea of the U.S. government taking equity stakes in artificial intelligence companies, a concept he described as "very interesting."

Trump announced that he would meet with top AI companies at the White House next week to discuss the potential for state ownership. "It's almost like it becomes a partnership with the American people, we're going to study that," Trump said, signaling a potential shift in how the government views its role in advanced technology sectors.

"We are leaders ahead of China, we are leaders over everyone in the world when it comes to AI, and we want to keep it that way," the president asserted, emphasizing his administration's commitment to maintaining American dominance in the field. This focus on AI leadership comes as the U.S. competes globally, particularly with China, in technological advancement.

Last week, Trump signed an executive order on AI that includes provisions for government oversight of the most advanced AI models, citing cybersecurity concerns. This move represents a more conservative regulatory approach for the Trump administration, contrasting with previous stances that often opposed regulation in favor of competitiveness. The order aims to establish a regulatory framework for AI within the United States.