Obama says Democrats need a clear plan on AI

Former US President Barack Obama said Democrats should make artificial intelligence one of their central agendas and prepare a clear plan on the technology's economic impact and safety. According to The New York Times, Obama made the remarks on September 10 at a Democratic fundraiser, answering questions from House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Obama proposed building a framework for a public conversation once Democrats regain the House majority. He said the technology is moving very fast in private hands and could be dangerous if not brought under control, but could speed up drug development if it is. The paper reports that Obama has offered himself as a sounding board to AI executives and has spoken with Dario Amodei and Sam Altman. In a statement, Jeffries said Obama is right that decisive action must be taken on AI.