Does Joseph O'Connor support AI safety?
Joseph O'Connor (The Trumpet of Patriots) is a candidate for Lindsay (house).
Joseph O'Connor's personal position directly conflicts with his party's official stance on AI safety. While the Trumpet of Patriots supports both an Australian AI Safety Institute and an AI Act with mandatory guardrails, O'Connor explicitly rejects AI safety regulations, stating "I don't believe in AI safety" and that there should be "no restrictions whatsoever on AI." He argues that AI's potential to advance medicine and potentially create superintelligence means "we should never attempt to restrict or limit AI." This stark contradiction raises questions about how O'Connor would represent the party's policies if elected.
Their score on expert-recommended AI safety policies
Over 356 experts, public figures, and concerned citizens endorsed these policies in their open letter before the 2025 election.
AI Safety Institute
A well-resourced, independent technical body to assess AI risks and advise on safety standards.
Joseph O'Connor opposes
Notes: Joseph O'Connor explicitly rejects AI safety measures, stating "I don't believe in AI safety" and "there should be no restrictions whatsoever on AI or AI technology." He contrasts AI with social media, arguing that unlike social media's negative impacts, AI development should proceed without limitations because of its potential to advance medicine and create superintelligence. Despite O'Connor's personal opposition, the Trumpet of Patriots party officially supports the creation of an Australian AI Safety Institute, creating a notable disconnect between the candidate's views and his party's platform.
Mandatory Guardrails
A dedicated AI Act with mandatory guardrails for high-risk AI systems will both protect Australians and create the certainty businesses need to innovate.
Joseph O'Connor opposes
Notes: Joseph O'Connor opposes any restrictions on AI development, stating there should be "no restrictions whatsoever on AI" and "we should never attempt to restrict or limit AI." He believes AI's potential benefits for medicine, science and the possibility of creating "artificial super intelligence" outweigh any safety concerns. This stands in contrast to the Trumpet of Patriots' official support for an Australian AI Act with mandatory guardrails, highlighting a significant discrepancy between the candidate's personal position and his party's policy.
Contact Joseph O'Connor
Email: lindsay@trumpetofpatriots.org