The U.S. government negotiates equity transfers with AI firms; Sanders proposes a 50% stock tax.

According to monitoring by Beating, as reported by digital media NOTUS, the U.S. government is in discussions with leading AI companies regarding equity participation, with a focus on voluntary equity contributions from corporations. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman is actively championing the initiative and has maintained ongoing communication with senior White House officials over the past several weeks. The proposed equity structure aims to establish a public trust modeled after the Alaska Permanent Fund, distributing AI-generated economic gains to American households through dividends. OpenAI’s policy white paper released in April 2026 explicitly recommended creating a public wealth fund, proposing that large model companies contribute capital or equity to mitigate unemployment risks caused by automation. Attitudes among major players vary: OpenAI has engaged in White House discussions, while Anthropic has explicitly stated it has not negotiated any equity transfers with the government. Both companies are currently preparing for their initial public offerings, and a White House equity stake could introduce valuation uncertainty. Previously, the federal government has held stakes in companies such as Intel through warrants as part of industrial subsidy programs. Senator Bernie Sanders plans to introduce a more aggressive mandatory proposal in June 2026. The bill would impose a one-time 50% stock tax on top AI firms, requiring them to surrender half their equity and cede board seats to enable democratic oversight of business decisions. Critics warn that compulsory equity seizure may violate the Constitution and create conflicts of interest, as the government would simultaneously serve as both regulator and shareholder.