Humans First, a conservative advocacy group, released an "America First AI Policy" platform on Friday, according to a memo first shared with Semafor.
The framework lays out several strict measures aimed at controlling advanced artificial intelligence (AI) development and use. Key elements include:
- tightening export controls against China and other adversaries;
- requiring independent testing for large AI companies;
- prohibiting advanced AI practices such as recursive self-improvement;
- banning federal use of certain camera systems like Flock;
- mandating public reporting of AI-related incidents;
- ensuring frontier AI developers can be held liable for reckless conduct;
- imposing strict rules for AI used by children;
- calling for a pause on H-1B visas.
Russ Walker, executive director of Humans First and an adviser to President Donald Trump’s 2020 campaign, said the policy should "center[] around the American people — not globalist corporations and not unaccountable bureaucrats." He added that "it is time for Congress to act and it is time for conservatives in particular to lead on this critical issue."
The group is chaired by Amy Kremer, a longtime Tea Party activist who argues that Republicans are missing an opportunity to shape AI policy that does not cater to big companies. Kremer has been leading a bus tour across the country called the "AI Data Center Revolt."
The platform’s proposals go beyond the approaches some Republicans on Capitol Hill have suggested for AI regulation, and represent a considerably stricter stance than the current, relatively light-touch policy of the Trump administration.
The memo also notes that this vocal constituency could gain influence if Republicans fare poorly in the midterm elections and public anxiety about AI becomes a significant political factor.
Why this matters
The proposed measures — notably export controls, mandatory independent testing, and bans on certain advanced development practices — are framed as responses to national security and economic concerns. If adopted or influential, they could shape the direction of AI development in the United States and affect international technological competition.
Next steps
Humans First intends to press Congress and conservative lawmakers to adopt its proposals. The likelihood that these ideas become law will depend on political developments, including election outcomes and legislative debates.
