Obama Urges Democrats to Prioritize AI Regulation as Political Issue

Former President Barack Obama has urged Democrats to make artificial intelligence regulation a central political priority, warning that the technology's rapid development in private hands could be dangerous without stronger oversight. His remarks, made at a private fundraiser in Manhattan on Thursday, come as growing concerns within the AI industry and Congress intensify calls for federal action. Speaking at a closed-door event organized by the campaign arm of House Democrats, Obama told donors that AI is moving very fast in private hands and could be dangerous if not properly managed. He specifically addressed House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, urging him to help shape a public conversation on AI policy should Democrats regain control of the House in the November midterm elections. Obama also called for candidates in the 2028 presidential race to make AI a central campaign agenda with a clear plan to address safety and economic concerns. The former president's advocacy builds on his previous involvement in AI policy, including advising the Biden White House on a 2023 executive order focused on voluntary prerelease testing and addressing algorithmic bias.