Who Will Own the AI Boom?

Since early June 2026, President Trump has raised the idea that the federal government could take a small ownership stake in major artificial intelligence companies so Americans can share in the gains. He made the remark aboard Air Force One on June 5, and he said his team will "look into" the concept while he arranges meetings with AI executives. CNBC and Reuters have reported that discussions with some firms, including OpenAI, have been under way for more than a year, although companies have not immediately agreed to give shares.

The White House has also issued an executive order that creates a voluntary program for AI developers to share powerful new models with the government ahead of public release. Meanwhile, other proposals have gained attention — Senator Bernie Sanders has proposed a plan that would give the public a large ownership stake in top AI firms. The administration has released an AI action plan that emphasizes U.S. competitiveness and national security while seeking new ways to manage risks and benefits.