Our views on AI policy and political advocacy

AI stands as one of the most powerful technologies ever developed, making current decisions about its governance and deployment critically important for the future. OpenAI believes that the future of AI should be collaboratively shaped by governments, researchers, workers, civil society, independent experts, and the public, rather than by any single entity. Developers of this technology, including OpenAI, have a responsibility to clearly articulate their values and policy positions.

Over the past year, AI policy has gained prominence in political discourse. Unlike many tech companies that fund Political Action Committees (PACs), OpenAI has not made donations to super PACs nor does it have an employee-funded PAC. The company also refrains from donating to political candidates or campaigns, pledging transparency if this approach ever changes.

While OpenAI employees are free to engage in the political process personally, their actions do not represent the company. This distinction is crucial, especially regarding organizations like Leading the Future (LTF), which has received personal support from OpenAI President Greg Brockman and his wife, Anna. OpenAI clarifies that it does not direct LTF's activities or have insight into its operations, emphasizing that no external political group speaks for the company.

OpenAI's policy views are reflected in its public statements and actions. The company asserts that AI policy is too significant for partisan politics, advocating for transparency, honesty, and the avoidance of deceptive tactics like astroturfing by groups involved in AI advocacy. OpenAI supports thoughtful regulation, rigorous testing of powerful AI systems, strong safety standards, public accountability, and broad access to AI’s benefits, committing to advocating these principles directly and transparently.