Trump’s AI executive order promises ‘one rulebook’ — startups may get legal limbo instead

TechCrunchFriday, December 12, 2025 at 5:07:22 PM
  • Former President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at establishing a unified national framework for artificial intelligence (AI), intending to block state-level regulations that he argues create confusion for startups. Critics warn that this move could lead to legal challenges and prolonged uncertainty for emerging tech companies as Congress debates federal regulations.
  • The executive order is significant for startups as it promises a single regulatory environment, potentially easing operational hurdles. However, the backlash from critics suggests that the order may not provide the clarity and stability that startups need, raising concerns about the implications for innovation and compliance.
  • This development reflects ongoing tensions between federal and state governance of AI, as efforts to block state regulations have faced bipartisan pushback in Congress. The situation underscores a broader debate about the balance between fostering innovation in the tech industry and ensuring consumer protection, as various stakeholders express differing views on the need for regulation.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Tanker Seized Off Venezuelan Coast Already On Its Way To The U.S. After Trump Says He'll Keep The Oil
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
A large tanker seized by the U.S. off the coast of Venezuela is reportedly en route to Houston, following a statement from Trump indicating the U.S. will retain the oil. This seizure reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela regarding oil exports and sanctions.
David Sacks says Trump's AI EO aims to ease companies' compliance burden and that the administration is working with Congress on a common AI oversight standard (Bloomberg)
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
White House AI czar David Sacks defended President Donald Trump's executive order aimed at streamlining artificial intelligence regulations by reducing the compliance burden on companies and establishing a unified oversight standard in collaboration with Congress. This move seeks to limit state-level regulations that could complicate AI development and deployment.
Policymakers behind key state AI bills scoff at Trump's EO; some GOP governors are pushing ahead with their own AI bills; Steve Bannon says Sacks misled Trump (Axios)
NegativeArtificial Intelligence
Policymakers behind significant state-level artificial intelligence (AI) legislation have dismissed former President Trump's recent executive order aimed at regulating state AI laws, indicating a strong commitment to advancing their own initiatives despite federal pushback. Some GOP governors are actively pursuing their own AI bills, reflecting a divergence in state and federal approaches to AI governance.
Trump tries to block state AI laws himself after Congress decided not to
NegativeArtificial Intelligence
Former President Donald Trump is attempting to block state-level regulations on artificial intelligence (AI) after Congress opted not to intervene. He argues that these state laws compel AI developers to incorporate ideological biases into their models, which he claims undermines the technology's integrity.
Trump's executive order seeks to centralize AI regulation at the federal level
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Former President Donald Trump signed an executive order aimed at centralizing artificial intelligence (AI) regulation at the federal level, asserting that a unified national policy will eliminate the confusing patchwork of state laws that hinder innovation and threaten the U.S. competitive edge against China in AI development.
Trump Cracks Down on State AI Regulations, Launches National Policy Push
PositiveArtificial Intelligence
Former President Trump has initiated a national policy push to regulate artificial intelligence (AI) at the federal level, countering state-level regulations. This move is encapsulated in an executive order aimed at establishing a cohesive national framework for AI governance, reflecting the growing importance of AI in various sectors.
Trump orders creation of litigation task force to challenge state AI laws
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
Former President Donald Trump has ordered the creation of a litigation task force aimed at challenging state laws regulating artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative reflects his administration's ongoing efforts to assert federal authority over state-level regulations, which he argues may hinder technological advancement.
Trump Moves to Stop States From Regulating AI With a New Executive Order
NeutralArtificial Intelligence
President Trump signed an executive order aimed at establishing a unified federal regulatory framework for artificial intelligence (AI), addressing the confusion caused by varying state laws. This move reflects his administration's commitment to ensuring that the U.S. maintains a competitive edge in AI development.

Ready to build your own newsroom?

Subscribe to unlock a personalised feed, podcasts, newsletters, and notifications tailored to the topics you actually care about