Trump says he's postponing AI executive order "because I didn't like what I was seeing"

President Trump announced on Thursday he was delaying the signing of an executive order on artificial intelligence, stating he did not want to 'get in the way' of U.S. dominance in AI development. During an Oval Office event, Trump said he postponed the signing because he 'didn’t like what I was seeing,' claiming certain aspects of the order could impede progress, particularly in surpassing China. The executive order was expected to address federal AI governance, including securing Pentagon and civilian systems, and establishing a voluntary framework for AI developers to collaborate with the government. A source familiar with the draft told CBS News it would also require pre-public access reviews for certain AI models. Trump argued AI is creating jobs and 'tremendous good' in the U.S., warning that the order could have 'blocked' advancements. He emphasized the need to avoid policies that might weaken America’s competitive edge. The specific provisions Trump objected to remain unspecified, though officials had previously outlined plans to strengthen AI security and foster public-private partnerships. The delay follows broader administration efforts to promote AI innovation while balancing regulatory concerns. The postponement raises questions about the balance between fostering AI growth and implementing safeguards, particularly as global competition intensifies. Trump’s decision reflects his prioritization of economic and technological leadership over immediate regulatory measures.