US tech advisors criticize OpenAI and Anthropic for seeking regulatory protection under the pretext of slowing AI development

On September 14, 2026, David Oliver Sacks, co-chair of the U.S. Presidential Council of Science and Technology, criticized OpenAI and Anthropic for using the pretext of slowing frontier AI development to seek regulatory protection. Sacks argued that the companies have formed a duopoly in the frontier AI space, with significant market share, revenue growth, and model capabilities. He accused them of pretending to need regulatory approval to avoid product liability and of creating a false narrative about the need for a regulatory framework. Sacks emphasized that the companies should not use the slowdown as an excuse to bypass market accountability or regulatory scrutiny. He warned that if their products lead to destructive cyberattacks, they will face significant legal risks. Sacks also pointed out that the companies have already traded some of their raw capabilities for reliability and predictability, which he called a smart business move. He argued that slowing down AI development could allow for a more rational discussion on regulation, rather than the extreme measures proposed by some politicians. However, he warned that if the companies continue to push for regulatory control without transparency, it could be seen as a form of extortion. The piece underscores the ongoing debate over how to balance innovation with safety in the AI industry.