Trump’s vision for technology in 2024 and beyond has evolved since his first term.
As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House for a second time, the technology industry is anticipating what could be a defining era of political transformation. Key areas of focus include artificial intelligence, cryptocurrencies, cybersecurity and strategic competition with China in high-tech sectors. With a legacy of bold regulatory changes and an “America First” approach, the Trump administration could profoundly reshape the technology landscape, both domestically and abroad.
Artificial intelligence: racing towards a new frontier
Since Trump’s last term, AI has progressedmoving from hypothetical potential to real-world applications that redefine entire industries. Trump’s campaign has previously hinted at plans to revise and possibly repeal the Biden administration’s sweeping AI executive order, which implemented AI development guidelines. The Trump administration believes that easing regulatory constraints could unlock innovation, essential to competing with China in the growing AI race.
China currently has a a significant advantage, with around 38,000 AI patents, compared to 6,300 in the United States. This gap underscores the urgent need for a U.S.-led AI revolution. Trump’s team suggests that strengthening the nation’s AI infrastructure and fostering an environment for innovation is paramount to national security and economic dominance. Meanwhile, the AI Safety Institute, formed during Biden’s termaims to balance innovation with strict regulatory safeguards. Trump’s policies will emphasize rapid advances in AI while exploring deregulation in areas where progress is hampered by surveillance.
Cybersecurity and national defense: protecting the digital battlefield
In an era of high cyberthreats, cybersecurity remains not only a priority but an imperative. Critical infrastructure…ranging from transport to electricity networks— faces growing vulnerability, with an increase in digital attacks. During Trump’s previous term, he introduced a national cybersecurity strategy that set a path for modernizing government IT and strengthening defenses against malicious actors.
The Trump administration has pledged to deploy “every tool” to protect critical assets, signaling its continued commitment to strengthening the nation’s defenses. This approach could mean greater government investment in cutting-edge cyber defenses, as well as collaboration with private technology companies to create fortified, resilient systems designed to withstand future cyber threats, particularly those from hostile nation states.
Energy policy: fueling a new digital era
As the United States becomes increasingly dependent on high-tech infrastructure, energy demand increases. AI and data centers require large amounts of energy, which can strain current resources. The Trump administration has long supported U.S. energy independence, a goal that aligns with its support for oil production, nicknamed “liquid gold.” The resurrected slogan “drill, baby, drill” reflects a commitment to developing domestic energy sources to meet this growing demand.
Additionally, nuclear power is very likely to be part of the strategy, positioned as a sustainable energy source capable of meeting the enormous infrastructure needs of a technology-driven economy. This multifaceted approach aligns with Trump’s broader goal of securing American energy independence while ensuring that America’s technological growth is based on reliable energy sources.
Cryptocurrency: A Changing Position on Digital Assets
Trump’s views on cryptocurrency have changed dramatically. Initially cautious, it is now open to lighter regulation, a change welcomed by the booming crypto industry. Stocks related to crypto assets, including Coinbase and MicroStrategy, have surged in response to Trump’s political stance. Although the administration appears supportive of crypto’s potential, the extent of regulatory changes remains uncertain and will depend on policies from the White House and Congress.
Commerce, technology and the semiconductor industry: a strategic imperative
During Trump’s first term, tariffs on technology imports, particularly from China, were introduced to support US manufacturing – a policy that is expected to continue. Now, the Trump administration appears poised to further support domestic semiconductor production, a crucial sector for AI, 5G and advanced technologies. Maintaining U.S. dominance in chip manufacturing is essential to maintaining technological and economic leadership. Restrictions on the export of semiconductor technology to China could expand, a move that could impact global supply chains but would align with broader goals of preserving advantage strategic of the United States.
Immigration and talent acquisition
The tech industry’s reliance on international talent, including through H-1B visa programs, could come under scrutiny under stricter immigration policies. Trump’s previous approach to immigration aimed to strengthen U.S. security and prioritize domestic employment, which could limit access to skilled workers in fields such as AI and cybersecurity. This shift could encourage companies to invest more in local talent development, training and recruitment initiatives—ppotentially even reversing some of the significant tech layoffs experienced over the past two years.
A renewed focus on national interests
Throughout his political career, Trump has championed an “America First” approach, a principle that is expected to guide technology policies in his second term. While this position may create opportunities for businesses aligned with national priorities, it could also pose challenges for others. Expected changes in policies around AI, cryptocurrency and cybersecurity will require technology companies to remain agile, adapting to evolving standards in a potentially fluid regulatory environment that could foster innovation rather than strict regulations.
Trump’s return to power opens a new chapter in US technology policy, with the stated goal of strengthening America’s global technological leadership. The influence of prominent technology leaders like Elon Musk and Marc Andreessen is also expected, as their views on innovation and national security could shape the administration’s approach to technology policy. For the tech industry, this could usher in a period of rapid change and growth, with U.S.-led innovation and more flexible regulatory approaches setting a new standard on the global stage.
