President Trump has adopted a hardline opposition to artificial intelligence regulation, dismissing bipartisan safety concerns as a "hoax" and "scam." His stance is significantly influenced by David Sacks, a billionaire venture capitalist serving as his AI adviser, who argues that regulatory frameworks would undermine American competitiveness in the global AI race.

This anti-regulation position coincides with substantial financial interests held by Trump and his inner circle in AI-related defence and technology ventures. Trump's sons have secured contracts worth $620 million from the Pentagon, including a Marine Corps robotics deal and an undisclosed Air Force drone agreement, whilst other close associates hold stakes in AI technology companies. The overlap between his regulatory stance and these lucrative financial positions raises questions about potential conflicts of interest.