Trump Signs Order Against “Woke AI” in Federal Procurement
Under the directive, federal agencies are barred from purchasing large language models that prioritise ideological agendas over factual accuracy.
President Donald Trump has issued an Executive Order titled “Preventing Woke AI in the Federal Government”, mandating that any AI models used in federal procurement must be truthful, ideologically neutral, and free from concepts such as diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), critical race theory, or systemic racism. The sign-off aligns with his broader strategy to reposition U.S. technology policy and assert global AI leadership.
Under the directive, federal agencies are barred from purchasing large language models that prioritise ideological agendas over factual accuracy. It builds on Executive Order 13960 (2020) to reinforce the government’s obligation to uphold AI integrity in publicly funded systems.
Although the order stops short of regulating AI in the private sector, it leverages federal procurement as a tool to enforce compliance. Agencies must now adhere to newly defined “Unbiased AI Principles”, with fresh guidance to be issued within 90 days.
Civil rights advocates and AI experts warn the policy could compel companies like Microsoft, Google, and OpenAI to self-censor or alter their models to retain government business. Critics contend it risks politicizing AI development and echoing authoritarian oversight practices.
Supporters argue the move prevents state-funded AI from embedding ideological narratives and ensures public-purchased technology prioritizes objectivity. However, defining and auditing ideological bias remains technically challenging and politically contentious.
This executive order comes alongside broader America’s AI Action Plan to reduce regulation around infrastructure development, boost AI exports, and consolidate federal leadership in innovation.
