Melania Trump recently spoke at an AI event at the White House, emphasizing the need for responsible management of artificial intelligence (AI) and championing it as a significant engine of progress. In her remarks, she stated that it’s vital to treat AI with the same care as one would their own children. She aims to guide American children in navigating the complexities of this technology, declaring the importance of “empowering, but with watchful guidance.”
Trump, who often maintains a low profile, has shown interest in becoming a key figure in technology discussions. In addition to her endorsement of AI, she has engaged with NFTs and cryptocurrency, highlighting their benefits. Recently, she launched an AI contest for students in grades K-12 and has also promoted the “Take It Down Act” aimed at criminalizing nonconsensual distribution of intimate imagery. While the act has received bipartisan support, experts have expressed concerns about its broad implications on free speech and its potential misuse.
Critics question whether Melania Trump is the right person to oversee AI’s development, especially given ongoing education cutbacks under her husband’s administration. These include proposals to defund programs like Head Start and cuts to funding historically tied to educational children’s programming. Many lawmakers and civil rights activists are concerned that the administration’s policies could hinder equitable access to education and knowledge.
In summary, while Melania Trump advocates for responsible AI development and has taken actions towards digital safety for children, lingering doubts exist about her capacity to effect meaningful change given the current political climate surrounding education and tech policy.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2025/sep/06/melania-trump-week-in-patriarchy