OpenAI has floated a plan to give the United States a 5 % stake in the company, a move that follows earlier proposals for an AI wealth fund that would spread gains to all citizens. The idea emerged after the firm’s CEO, Sam Altman, met Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.

Senator Bernie Sanders has slammed the offer as too small, arguing that a public stake should be far larger. In a recent speech, Sanders outlined a plan that would impose a one‑time 50 % tax on AI firms’ stock, estimating the levy could raise $7 trillion for direct payments or public programs.

OpenAI insists that a modest 5 % share would grant Americans more control over AI development, while Sanders pushes for a bipartisan Independent Commission for Democratic AI. The commission would use voting shares to block decisions that could harm ordinary people, according to Sanders’ vision for democratic oversight.

If Congress fails to adopt mechanisms that allow the U.S. to own a stake in AI firms, the debate between OpenAI and Sanders may stall progress on safeguarding workers and privacy. The outcome will shape how quickly AI benefits spread and whether public interests keep pace with technological growth.