Trump administration asks OpenAI to stagger release of new model to vet users

The Trump administration, through the US Treasury and Commerce Department, requested that OpenAI stagger the release of its new model, GPT 5.6, to allow for user vetting. This request, made in late 2024, aimed to prevent the model's misuse by foreign adversaries or individuals seeking to disrupt the upcoming US presidential election. The administration expressed concerns that an unvetted release could facilitate the spread of disinformation and propaganda. OpenAI reportedly agreed to a phased rollout, beginning with a limited beta program for trusted partners and researchers. This move highlights growing government scrutiny over the rapid advancement and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies. The administration's intervention underscores the potential national security implications of powerful AI models and the need for robust oversight mechanisms. The specific timeline for the staggered release and the criteria for user vetting were not fully disclosed, but the intention was to ensure responsible deployment.