OpenAI is in discussions to grant the US government a 5% equity stake in the company, a move aimed at defusing mounting political pressure in Washington.
The proposal, first reported by the Financial Times, represents a significant pivot for the artificial intelligence developer as it faces intensifying scrutiny over the potential misuse of advanced models and questions regarding whether American taxpayers are benefiting from the technology's rapid advancement.
The suggestion of a government equity position marks a departure from the traditional separation between state oversight and private tech ownership.
By offering a direct financial interest, OpenAI appears to be seeking a structural solution to regulatory and political headwinds, rather than relying solely on compliance measures or lobbying.
This approach could reshape the relationship between the US government and the private sector's leading AI players.
The development comes as lawmakers and regulators increasingly focus on the national security and economic implications of generative AI.