OpenAI Proposes 5% U.S. Government Stake Amid AI Policy Talks

OpenAI has reportedly proposed granting the U.S. government a 5% ownership stake in the artificial intelligence company as it seeks to strengthen ties with Washington and address growing political scrutiny over the rapidly expanding AI industry.

According to a Financial Times report published Thursday, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman floated the idea during early discussions with the Trump administration. Citing sources familiar with the talks, the report said Altman believes giving the public a direct financial stake in leading AI companies is one of the most effective ways to ensure Americans benefit from the economic gains created by artificial intelligence.

The proposal would not be limited to OpenAI. It would reportedly encourage other major U.S. AI developers to offer a similar 5% stake to the federal government, although it remains uncertain whether rival companies would support such a move. It is also unclear whether the Trump administration intends to pursue or formally adopt the proposal.

If implemented, the initiative could represent a significant shift in how the U.S. government engages with the AI sector. A government ownership stake could help align public and private interests while easing concerns that the financial rewards of artificial intelligence are concentrated among a handful of technology companies and investors.

The discussions come as artificial intelligence continues to play an increasingly important role in the U.S. economy, national security, and technological competitiveness. OpenAI's proposal also reflects the company's efforts to maintain a constructive relationship with policymakers as Washington develops a broader regulatory framework for advanced AI systems.

Separately, the Financial Times reported that the U.S. government is in advanced negotiations with several AI companies to establish voluntary standards governing the release of new artificial intelligence models. The proposed framework follows multiple AI-related initiatives introduced by the Trump administration in June.

The voluntary guidelines could be announced as early as next week and are expected to include safety benchmarks for AI models with advanced cybersecurity capabilities. They may also establish recommended timelines for releasing future AI systems, providing developers with clearer expectations while promoting responsible innovation.

The reported discussions highlight the growing collaboration between government officials and leading AI companies as both sides seek to balance innovation, public trust, economic opportunity, and national security in the rapidly evolving artificial intelligence landscape.