The AI clash: Why Obama is pushing for tougher federal rules as Trump unveils AI Force

Former US President Barack Obama has called for stronger federal regulation of AI, warning that market forces alone may not ensure adequate safeguards. His September 18 remarks at Colgate University focused on the risks and commercial incentives behind increasingly autonomous AI agents.

Former US President Barack Obama has urged the federal government to impose tighter controls on the use of artificial intelligence, stating that market forces and the fear of litigation will not be enough to regulate more autonomous AI systems. He made the comments at a public discussion on September 18 at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York, where he explained the rise in agentic AI and the business motives behind its advancement.

Obama said that AI might be useful in fields like medical research, energy and scientific discovery, without necessarily needing to function independently on the internet. He also raised the possibility that companies' financial interests do not necessarily overlap with the need for increased protection. His remarks were made days before President Donald Trump's announcement of his plans to create an AI Force and a new AI czar, highlighting two different methods to regulating artificial intelligence.

Obama argues for federal AI oversight

At the Colgate event, Obama stated the US government ought to control AI and not just businesses, which might be liable for economic damages if it fails. He likened AI to other regulated industries like the airlines or pharmaceutical and food manufacturing.

Obama also indicated that there may be "at least a couple of years" lag time between the swift growth of AI and establishing a more comprehensive regulatory regime. He said the only way the industry can help is by voluntary restraint, which is the most practical approach until Congress and the executive branch take further steps.

Pragya Singha Roy