The AI Policy Podcast Unpacking the White House AI Action Plan with OSTP Director Michael Kratsios
Jul 31, 2025
Michael Kratsios, the former Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, shares insights on the AI Action Plan initiated during the Trump administration. He discusses the U.S.'s strategic goals for artificial intelligence and the complexities of chip export policies amidst competition with China. Kratsios also highlights the differences in AI regulation between the U.S. and EU, the urgent need for reskilling workers for an AI-driven economy, and the role of the Center for AI Standards and Innovation in shaping industry practices.
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Kratsios Nail it in Public Service
- Michael Kratsios was recognized as part of the 25% of political appointees who "really nail it."
- He returned to public service over attractive private options for the country's benefit.
Early U.S. AI Leadership Vision
- The US started AI leadership early with Trump's 2019 executive order before AI was mainstream.
- This early focus was on powering research and development for future AI breakthroughs.
Fear Drove Prior AI Policy
- The Biden administration's AI policy was driven largely by fear of AI risks.
- This resulted in long executive orders imposing strict testing that worried the AI community.