Bernie Sanders to Introduce Bill Banning AI Superintelligence
US Senator Bernie Sanders said he will introduce a bill to ban AI superintelligence and create a sovereign wealth fund giving the United States a 50% stake in AI companies. He discussed the proposal in an interview with BBC Newsnight, citing concerns that artificial intelligence could overtake humanity. Passage would require support from Republican majorities in both houses of Congress and signature by President Donald Trump.
Sanders, an independent who often works with Democrats, outlined two main elements. The first would prohibit the development of AI systems that exceed human intelligence. The second would establish a fund in which the federal government holds half ownership in major AI firms. Trump has previously expressed support for government investment in AI companies framed as a partnership with the public. The senator described the ownership stake as a way to ensure the American public benefits directly from advances in the technology.
These elements together form the core of the intended legislation. Sanders stressed that the ban targets superintelligence specifically, while the fund would apply to leading AI companies. No additional policy mechanisms were detailed in the remarks.
Legislative challenges
Any bill faces a divided political environment. Republicans control both chambers of Congress, and Trump holds the presidency. Sanders acknowledged that success depends on building bipartisan backing and securing the president's approval. The measure has not yet been formally introduced. Without votes in both the House and Senate, the proposal cannot advance to the White House for signature.
The current congressional makeup means the independent senator must navigate Republican leadership in order to move the bill forward. Trump would also need to sign the legislation into law for it to take effect.
Context of AI concerns
Sanders has repeatedly warned about the risks of advanced AI systems operating beyond human control. His comments to the BBC reflect ongoing debate in Washington over how to regulate emerging technologies while maintaining US leadership in the sector. No timeline for introduction was provided in the interview. The discussion centered on the possibility of artificial intelligence overtaking humanity as the primary motivation for the proposed ban.
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