2025’s AI Shake-Up: What the New Administration Means for Tech

by Chuck Dyer - November 15, 2024

The dawn of 2025 heralds a paradigm shift in the realm of artificial intelligence. Envision a landscape where AI innovation accelerates unfettered, geopolitical tensions reshape technological priorities, and regulatory frameworks undergo transformative revisions. Intrigued by the possibilities? The interplay between deregulation, national security, and global competition is poised to redefine how AI integrates into our societies and economies. Ready to delve into the unfolding narrative?

As I survey the evolving landscape of AI regulation, I notice a significant departure from previous approaches. The new administration seems poised to adopt a more hands-off stance, potentially dismantling existing executive orders that have shaped our industry’s compliance requirements. For instance, the AI Executive Order from October 2023 might face repeal or substantial modification, fundamentally altering how we, as developers and innovators, navigate the regulatory environment.

Federal agencies like the Department of Commerce and the Federal Trade Commission could be instructed to reduce their oversight of AI-related activities. This relaxation might foster an environment ripe for innovation, allowing us greater freedom to explore and implement cutting-edge technologies without the previous layers of bureaucratic approval. The obligations we’ve had for reporting large AI models to the government might be rescinded, granting companies like mine greater autonomy and discretion in our development processes.

Moving away from stringent, risk-centered policies could accelerate AI deployment across various sectors. While this opens doors for rapid advancement, it also places a responsibility on us to ensure ethical considerations aren’t sidelined in the pursuit of progress.

On the international front, despite a general trend toward deregulation domestically, I anticipate a tightening of AI-related export controls, especially concerning China. Strengthened restrictions could limit China’s access to advanced AI technologies, impacting global supply chains and possibly inciting retaliatory measures. This increased focus on outpacing China in AI development might lead to substantial investments in domestic research and innovation, offering opportunities for collaboration and growth within the industry.

In the realm of national security, I expect expanded collaboration between the government and American AI firms. This partnership could accelerate advancements in defense technologies, and a less risk-averse approach might be adopted in deploying AI for national security purposes. Such a shift could have profound implications for how we develop and apply AI solutions, emphasizing the need for careful ethical consideration.

Regarding antitrust perspectives, a potential relaxation in enforcement might reshape our industry by making mergers and acquisitions more feasible. Easier pathways for companies to acquire AI startups could stimulate market consolidation, affecting competition and innovation dynamics. Additionally, increased federal support for autonomous vehicle adoption may expedite integration into our transportation networks, a development I find particularly exciting.

There’s also the possibility of federal preemption of certain state AI regulations to create a more streamlined national approach. This move could reduce compliance complexities for businesses operating across multiple states, simplifying legal frameworks and fostering a more unified market.

National security considerations are likely to take center stage in AI policy. The administration may prioritize AI development that supports “Free Speech and Human Flourishing,” potentially steering the direction of innovation. Tools like the Defense Production Act might be modified or removed from AI oversight, changing how technologies are monitored and regulated. This could impact our strategies for development and deployment, emphasizing applications that align with these foundational principles.

Despite these significant shifts, I believe some aspects of the previous administration’s AI strategy may continue. Efforts to enhance cybersecurity guidelines are expected to persist, recognizing the growing threats in the digital landscape. Certain national security recommendations might remain relevant, providing continuity in critical areas. Moreover, initiatives aimed at improving government efficiency through AI could continue, reflecting a bipartisan acknowledgment of technology’s role in advancing public services.

The trajectory of AI in 2025 is set against a backdrop of deregulation, intensified global competition, and a redefined emphasis on national security. As someone deeply involved in this field, I understand that navigating this evolving landscape requires balancing the opportunities of unfettered innovation with the complexities of international relations and ethical considerations. Understanding these policy shifts is imperative for shaping a future that harnesses technology’s full potential while safeguarding societal values.

Over his 35 year career, Chuck has worked in just about all facets of IT, from hands on network engineering to server and datacenter architecture to business continuity, as well as managing teams of developers focused on SaaS product design and development. Much of his career was building and advising emerging technology startups in the cloud, AI and blockchain industries. In addition, he is a US Military Veteran of 24 years, having served in the United States Marine Corps, United States Air Force Reserve and Ohio Naval Reserve. Chuck serves as Chief Revenue Officer at StarSevenSix.