Trump Dismisses AI Safety Concerns as a 'Hoax'

President Donald Trump responded to warnings about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) on September 14, 2026, by rejecting the need for safeguards and labeling concerns about AI as a "hoax." In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated that the only necessary control is a "STRONG AND SMART (High IQ!) PRESIDENT," asserting that the U.S. has that capability. He hinted at possible government actions against AI companies following warnings from industry insiders about the risks associated with rapidly evolving technology. Trump referenced Dario Amodei, CEO of Anthropic, who suggested in an essay that AI companies should slow their development pace. Trump claimed, "The Trump Administration has stopped AI 'people' from doing bad, or potentially bad, 'things,'" and emphasized the U.S.'s regulatory power over these companies. He characterized concerns about AI as part of a conspiracy against AI and data centers, suggesting that only China benefits from such fears. Despite growing skepticism about AI among the public and within his party, Trump framed the technology's growth as essential for economic and geopolitical success, warning that communities rejecting AI data centers would become "backwards and poor." A recent NBC News poll indicated that 70% of adults are more worried than excited about AI, with 69% opposing AI data centers in their areas, including 57% of Republican voters. Trump reiterated his defense of AI, stating that fears of AI destroying humanity are unfounded and that AI could be the "Greatest Economic Development Engine in History." He made similar remarks during a call to the All-In Summit with Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang and posted multiple times on Truth Social in support of AI. In response to Amodei's warnings, other AI leaders have called for a slowdown in development to better understand and manage potential threats. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Speaker Mike Johnson have expressed the need for discussions on AI safety, while some Republicans believe regulation will not occur until after the November elections. Rep. Tim Burchett raised concerns about Congress's ability to regulate AI effectively, suggesting that industry experts should be involved in the process. Former President Barack Obama supported the call for a slowdown in AI development as a necessary step.