Sam Altman Praises Macron as Most Impressive Leader on AI
OpenAI’s Sam Altman has identified French President Emmanuel Macron as the world leader whose approach to artificial intelligence stands out. In an exclusive conversation with POLITICO’s Decoded, Altman was asked which political figure impressed him most regarding AI policy or plans. “The person that came to mind as you were saying that is the French president,” he said. Altman described Macron as “extremely thoughtful and has been for a long time about where this is going and what the shape of it needs to look like.” The French leader has actively promoted AI safety internationally and has been a key supporter of the French AI lab Mistral.
Macron’s final months in office
Macron’s tenure is nearing its end, as he cannot seek a third term in the April 2027 election. Polls currently show far-right candidate Marine Le Pen in the lead. Le Pen’s National Rally party is said to favor deregulation of AI, according to three senior party officials.
The party also wants to reduce dependence on foreign technology companies. It is considering reviving a proposal for a sovereign wealth fund to support French tech firms like OVH or Mistral. Additionally, National Rally would prioritize French companies in public contracts. Some party figures have even suggested repatriating French capital invested in American tech—around €80 billion, according to party official Alexandre Loubet—though details remain unclear. Next month, Macron will host the annual Paris Peace Forum, one of his signature diplomatic events. This year’s focus will be AI safety and the risks the technology poses to children and teenagers.
