AI firms warn of dangers while shaping AI regulation

Anthropic and OpenAI CEOs are publicly warning that advanced AI systems pose dangers to humanity and require regulation, while simultaneously positioning themselves to influence how their technology is controlled ahead of U.S. midterm elections and potential stock market listings. The companies are advocating for independent testing and safety protocols in an unregulated market, with experts suggesting their rhetoric aims to secure public favor and set favorable terms for their own practices. Critics note this focus on existential risks diverts attention from current issues like AI use in warfare and surveillance. President Donald Trump has dismissed AI risk warnings as a hoax, and the administration lacks universal testing standards. Analysts say the companies are creating competitive moats by presenting themselves as safe bets for investors, potentially blocking smaller rivals while shaping oversight through preferred evaluators.