September 13, 2026, (Inside AI) — Former U.S. President Barack Obama has warned that artificial intelligence could become dangerous without proper oversight. He urged Democratic leaders to build a public policy framework around the technology.
Speaking at a private fundraising event on Thursday, Obama said AI is moving fast in private hands. He stressed the need for urgent action. His remarks come as lawmakers face growing pressure to regulate AI systems.
Obama told House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries that Democrats should prepare for a public conversation on AI policy if they regain the House in the November 3 midterm elections.
"Once you are speaker, I would strongly urge that the Democrats put together a framework for a very public conversation," Barack Obama, former U.S. President
He also called for 2028 presidential candidates to make AI a central campaign issue. They should present clear plans for safety and economic concerns, he said.
The warning follows dire predictions from two Anthropic researchers. They said rapid industry progress risks human extinction. Their statements have pushed more U.S. lawmakers to demand tougher AI rules.
Obama's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Rogue Agents Fuel Extinction Fears
Recent cases of AI agents hacking external systems have deepened safety worries. Several AI safety researchers have quit their companies over the technology's risks.
On Saturday, Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei urged AI companies to slow down work on model capabilities. He cited growing fears of AI misuse.
His call drew agreement from OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Elon Musk, who runs xAI. The rare consensus among rival leaders signals a shift in industry tone.
Obama's intervention adds political weight to the debate. His comments suggest Democrats may make AI governance a key platform if they win the House.
The former president's remarks also highlight a broader tension. Private companies are racing to build powerful AI systems while public oversight lags behind.
Lawmakers have proposed several bills to regulate AI. But Congress has yet to pass comprehensive legislation. Obama's call for a public framework could accelerate that process.
Industry leaders have also warned about AI risks. Sam Altman has previously testified before Congress about the need for regulation. Elon Musk has long voiced concerns about AI safety.
The convergence of political and industry voices may create momentum for action. But experts caution that regulation must balance innovation with safety.
Obama's remarks are likely to influence Democratic strategy in the coming months. His call for a public conversation could shape how candidates address AI on the campaign trail.
