Democratic Representative Dean Phillips of Minnesota has set an ambitious goal of becoming the first AI president, highlighting the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) and the need for swift action on AI challenges. In a campaign speech in New Hampshire, Phillips emphasized that older politicians may not be adequately prepared for the challenges ahead, indirectly criticizing President Biden, his 81-year-old opponent.
Phillips stressed the urgency of the situation, comparing it to climate change. He stated that while society had 100 years to prepare for climate change and took no action, AI demands immediate attention. According to Phillips, we have only months or a couple of years at most to address the impact of AI on our future.
To tackle the challenges posed by AI, Phillips pledged to establish an AI task force that would study its applications and outcomes. He believes that AI can enhance the efficiency of the federal government and revolutionize health outcomes. However, he also acknowledged the potential risks and disruptions that AI could bring to the economy.
In order to address these concerns, Phillips intends to assemble a task force consisting of leading experts to anticipate the future impact of AI and make recommendations for employing better practices and implementing safeguards against its nefarious use. He highlighted the importance of discussing both the blessings and risks associated with AI.
President Biden has also recognized the significance of AI and has taken steps to regulate its development and use. He recently signed an executive order requiring AI developers to share safety test results with the U.S. government. Biden has also engaged in discussions with tech giants such as Microsoft and OpenAI to ensure responsible AI development.
The open availability of AI has raised concerns among experts, leading to calls for federal legislation that would regulate its use and ensure responsible deployment. AI expert Marva Bailer warns of the potential negative impacts of unregulated AI and supports the idea of comprehensive guidelines to safeguard against unintended consequences.
While Phillips’ claim to become the first AI president may be viewed as ambitious, it highlights the growing importance of AI in politics and decision-making. Policymakers around the world are increasingly focusing on the implications of AI and the need for comprehensive guidelines to govern its use.
Elizabeth Elkind, a reporter for Digital, has been closely following the intersection of artificial intelligence and politics. She stresses the significance of Phillips’ campaign promise and provides the latest updates from the 2024 campaign trail.
In conclusion, Representative Dean Phillips’ aspiration to become the first AI president sheds light on the potential of AI in shaping the future of governance. With concerns and risks associated with AI, both Phillips and President Biden are taking steps to ensure its responsible development and use through the establishment of task forces and executive orders. As the world grapples with the ever-evolving field of AI, discussions surrounding its impact on society, the economy, and politics will continue to dominate global conversations.
