Interior Secretary Doug Burgum publicly dismissed Pope Leo XIV's encyclical on artificial intelligence, which warns of the technology's potential to displace workers and exacerbate inequality. This response contrasts with Vice President JD Vance's praise for the Pope's message, indicating a split within the administration as it navigates the politically sensitive issue of AI regulation.
President Trump recently delayed an executive order aimed at establishing a voluntary AI safety review process, citing concerns that oversight could hinder the U.S.'s competitive edge against China. The Pope's remarks come amid a broader critique of the administration's policies, including immigration and foreign affairs, which could alienate Catholic voters, a crucial demographic for Trump.
Political analysts suggest that ongoing disputes with the Pope may impact Trump's support among moderate Catholics, especially in swing districts during the upcoming midterm elections. The situation reflects the complex interplay between technology, ethics, and political strategy as the administration seeks to balance industry interests with public concerns over AI's societal impact