Trump Administration Shifts Focus From AI to Robotics

The Trump administration is turning its attention from artificial intelligence to robotics as the next major pillar of its industrial strategy aimed at countering China’s technological dominance.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has met with several robotics industry executives and expressed full support for accelerating development in the field. According to officials familiar with the matter, the administration is considering an executive order on robotics in 2026. The Department of Transportation is also expected to announce a new robotics working group before the end of the year.

The push signals Washington’s growing interest in robotics as a key component of manufacturing, national security, and economic competitiveness. Industry leaders say robots are the “physical form of AI” and urge the government to provide tax incentives, automation funding, and trade policies to counter Chinese subsidies.

Apptronik CEO Jeff Cardenas said the US must develop a national robotics strategy to stay competitive, while Boston Dynamics’ Brendan Schulman noted that robotics investment is becoming essential for defense and public safety.

Still, critics warn that automation could undermine Trump’s goal of reviving the American manufacturing workforce. Others argue that robotics can boost productivity, expand job opportunities, and strengthen US industry if implemented responsibly.

“The future is not man versus machine, but man and machine together,” Cardenas said.