President Donald Trump is facing sharp criticism from key allies after signing the “Ensuring a National Policy Framework for AI” executive order, a sweeping directive aimed at establishing federal control over artificial intelligence that would override state-level regulations. The move has intensified tensions within the conservative movement, with figures like Steve Bannon publicly denouncing the president’s decision as a betrayal of the MAGA base.
Bannon accused Trump’s aides, particularly crypto and AI adviser David Sacks, of misleading the president, claiming the executive order is unenforceable and serves the interests of tech executives rather than working-class Americans. “Tech bros doing utmost to turn POTUS MAGA base away from him while they line their pockets,” Bannon wrote, framing the order as a calculated effort to profit from federal AI oversight at the expense of Trump’s supporters.
The backlash reflects broader unease among conservatives over federal involvement in AI. GOP strategists and lobbyists describe a split between senators and influential MAGA figures who had previously taken positions on AI that clash with the executive order’s framework. Critics argue that the directive displaces workers and cedes influence to Silicon Valley, tapping into long-standing party concerns about federal overreach and Big Tech dominance.
Trump has defended the order by framing it as essential to maintaining America’s competitive edge in AI, particularly against China. He has repeatedly emphasized the urgency of establishing federal standards, arguing that the United States must secure “victory” in AI development. Analysts note, however, that the US commitment dwarfs China’s in both scale and public perception, with over $750 billion invested domestically compared to China’s $100 billion, highlighting the extent to which Washington views AI as a national priority.
As the executive order ignites debate within conservative circles, the clash underscores the growing tension between Trump’s political strategy and the priorities of his core supporters, setting the stage for further divisions over the role of technology, federal power, and economic policy in the MAGA agenda.
