Sen. Bernie Sanders has renewed calls to restrict advanced artificial intelligence, advocating a permanent ban on artificial superintelligence after OpenAI CEO Sam Altman discussed potential cybersecurity threats from open-source AI. According to The Hill, Altman warned that such systems could contribute to serious cyber incidents, raising questions about the trade-offs between security and technological freedom.
Sanders rejected the idea that major cybersecurity risks should be accepted in exchange for the benefits of open-source development. He argued that technology companies must remain accountable under the law and called for a halt to advanced AI development before superintelligence emerges.
Last month, Sanders and Rep. Greg Casar introduced the Ban Artificial Superintelligence Act. The proposal would permanently prohibit artificial superintelligence and temporarily suspend advanced AI development until federal regulators establish safety standards. It would also direct the United States to pursue international agreements preventing superintelligence development and create a Cabinet-level agency focused on AI safety.
The proposal comes amid broader congressional efforts to address AI risks, including cybersecurity incidents involving AI software. Concerns have also grown following warnings from former OpenAI and Anthropic researcher Jacob Coxon about potential existential dangers posed by the technology.
President Donald Trump has promoted AI development while announcing plans for an AI czar and a Super Intelligence Force. Sanders has criticized the administration's approach, while calls for greater AI regulation have emerged from lawmakers across party lines.