In recent months, a new report indicates that artificial intelligence is capable of handling significant tasks, such as developing presentations for top consulting firms. Notably, Elon Musk has estimated a 20% chance of human extinction due to AI.
Michael Kratsios might not be a household name, but he’s crucial in ensuring the U.S. maintains control over AI and other technological advancements.
As the head of the lesser-known White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), he serves as a key technology advisor, overseeing science and technology policy across federal bodies.
His role involves making sure that the United States remains a leader in science and technology while also benefiting American workers.
In an exclusive interview, we discussed what keeps him up at night. He hinted that an AI action plan, expected to be revealed in July, is in the works. Kratsios believes this technology can greatly benefit the average American.
He argues that one of Trump’s substantial impacts has been introducing innovative thinking into the government. “The Biden administration, driven by fear rather than promise, aims to analyze potential tech-related harms to the nation,” he said. “Instead, we should harness [AI] to enhance Americans’ lives, bolster national security, drive economic growth, and empower our workforce.”
The U.S. is on the brink of becoming an AI superpower, though nothing is guaranteed.
“The U.S. has the potential to outpace other nations with cutting-edge technology. But the real issue lies in the government’s reluctance to adopt it. Without implementation in places like the Department of Defense or among major American corporations, we risk falling behind,” he commented.
Before taking on this role earlier this year, Kratsios held various positions in the private sector and was CTO during Trump’s first term.
His primary worry is that the U.S. is lagging in adopting and exporting its own technologies, particularly when compared to China, which has successfully advanced in developing tools like Deepseek.
He pointed out, “The U.S. government excels at exporting outdated hardware, but our capacity to export advanced tech and software is lacking.”
Focus has shifted to technology adoption and exports. This is pertinent given why JD Vance attended the AI Summit in Paris, and Trump’s call for $500 billion in AI investments from prominent figures like Masa Son, Larry Ellison, and Sam Altman.
Kratsios emphasizes, “There’s an opportunity to leverage these remarkable technologies to enhance American lives and secure our long-term economic and national security, but we must be intentional in our actions.”
He aims to formalize an AI action plan—a document outlining the necessary policies to govern AI—which is currently receiving feedback from around 10,000 individuals.
Kratsios acknowledges that the technology community is broad and diverse, yet the challenge is to unleash American innovation while establishing sound regulations. Facing adversaries like China and Russia, who prioritize infrastructure over stifling innovation, presents a unique challenge.
He remarked, “We are in a privileged situation; the world is eager to adopt our technology. We must effectively release it and align with ongoing trade agreements, as we know our adversaries are working to subsidize and export their own AI frameworks.”
Another vital aspect of his job is ensuring tech advancements translate into tangible benefits for the average American.
In the coming five years, this might lead to improved healthcare accessibility, faster and more precise diagnoses, and overall reduced stress in daily life.
“Many routine tasks can be automated, leading to a simpler existence,” he said, adding, “We have a unique chance to use these extraordinary technologies to uplift American lives while securing our long-term economic and national security. But this requires intentional effort.”
