Trump calls AI 'bigger than the internet', raises concerns about Anthropic

Donald Trump predicted that artificial intelligence would drive major advances in medicine, scientific research, and economic productivity
Donald Trump said artificial intelligence could surpass the internet's impact, while revealing recent administration concerns about Anthropic (The Axios Show/YouTube)
Donald Trump said artificial intelligence could surpass the internet's impact, while revealing recent administration concerns about Anthropic (The Axios Show/YouTube)

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump believes artificial intelligence could have a greater impact on society than the internet, describing the rapidly advancing technology as a game-changer for the future.

Speaking in an interview with Axios, Trump shared his vision for AI's potential while also revealing that his administration recently had concerns about AI company Anthropic.

The president suggested that artificial intelligence could transform industries ranging from healthcare to science while also creating new national security challenges.



Trump calls AI bigger than internet

Trump made a bold prediction while discussing the future of artificial intelligence. "It's bigger than the internet," he said.

President Donald Trump speaks during a Medal of Honor ceremony in the East Room of the White House, Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
President Donald Trump speaks during a Medal of Honor ceremony in the East Room of the White House, Thursday, June 18, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

The president suggested that AI's influence could eventually surpass the impact the internet has had on communication, business, and everyday life. According to Trump, the technology has the potential to dramatically change how people work and solve problems across multiple industries.

His comments reflect the growing attention artificial intelligence is receiving from policymakers as companies race to build increasingly powerful systems.

Trump predicts AI-driven medical breakthroughs

Trump also highlighted the benefits he believes AI could bring in the years ahead. He predicted advances in medicine, scientific research, and economic productivity as artificial intelligence continues to evolve.

President Donald Trump speaks during an event to sign a proclamation about the fishing industry, in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, June 11, 2026, in Washington. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)
President Donald Trump speaks during an event to sign a proclamation about the fishing industry, in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, June 11, 2026, in Washington (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin)

At the same time, he acknowledged that AI presents challenges alongside its opportunities.

The administration has increasingly viewed artificial intelligence as both an economic asset and a national security issue, particularly as global competition in the sector intensifies.

Trump suggested that policymakers must remain focused on both innovation and oversight as the technology develops.

Trump discusses administration concerns over Anthropic

During the interview, Trump was asked about Anthropic and suggested that administration officials recently had concerns about the company.

"A week ago, maybe," Trump said when asked about the issue. "We didn't like what they were doing." 

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 11: U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a proclamation signing ceremony in the Oval Office of the White House on June 11, 2026 in Washington, DC. The action restores federally managed commercial fishing access to three of America's marine national monuments in the Pacific Ocean. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump speaks during a proclamation signing ceremony in the Oval Office of the White House on June 11, 2026 in Washington, DC (Getty Images)

The president did not provide additional details or explain what specifically prompted those concerns. However, the remarks indicated that the administration is closely monitoring developments within the rapidly growing AI industry.

Trump also indicated that he would be willing to use federal authority, if necessary, to influence the direction of artificial intelligence development.

When asked whether he would consider using powers such as the Defense Production Act in relation to AI, Trump gave a direct response. "I would," he said.

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