Former United States President Barack Obama has urged Democrats to make artificial intelligence a central part of their political agenda and develop a clear framework for addressing the technology’s economic and safety implications. 

Obama made the comments during a Democratic fundraising event where he was interviewed by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Responding to questions about how Democrats should approach AI if they regain control of the House, Obama said lawmakers should establish a framework for a broad public discussion. 

He warned that the technology is developing rapidly in the hands of private companies and could become dangerous if governments fail to establish appropriate oversight.

Obama also acknowledged the potential benefits of AI, particularly in areas such as medicine and scientific research.

He said responsible development could accelerate drug discovery and contribute to efforts to treat and cure diseases. 

Jeffries supported the former president’s position, saying decisive action was necessary to address the challenges posed by AI.

Obama has reportedly maintained discussions with leading technology executives and has offered himself as a sounding board to industry leaders. 

His comments come amid increasing debate over AI safety, with researchers and executives raising concerns about the possibility of increasingly autonomous and powerful systems.

The debate has also reached the administration of President Donald Trump, who has said the United States must maintain its leadership in artificial intelligence. 

Trump has acknowledged the need for safeguards while emphasizing the importance of maintaining American technological dominance. 

The growing disagreement over AI regulation is expected to remain a major political and economic issue as the technology continues to develop.

Source: TechCrunch