President Trump postponed a planned executive order on AI and cybersecurity hours before its scheduled signing on Thursday, after a top adviser and several tech executives voiced strong objections, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The last-minute collapse derailed a photo op expected to feature Trump surrounded by tech CEOs.
The delay reflects deeper divisions within the administration and industry over AI regulation. Trump, who has long resisted regulatory measures, was reportedly swayed by adviser David Sacks and a handful of tech leaders who argued the order was unnecessary, sources told Axios.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, xAI CEO Elon Musk, and Sacks all spoke with Trump between Wednesday night and Thursday morning. One source said Trump and Sacks both “hated” the order, calling it “something doomers wanted.” The companies did not respond to requests for comment.
Any further delay risks prolonging infighting among government agencies and industry factions, potentially weakening the final policy. The order was intended to address AI security and competitiveness, but its fate remains uncertain as competing interests vie for influence.
Some industry advocates argue that AI regulation is premature and could stifle innovation, a view that aligns with Trump's anti-regulatory stance. Critics warn that inaction leaves critical cybersecurity vulnerabilities unaddressed.