Preventing Woke AI in the Federal Government

This executive order directs federal agencies to avoid procuring large language models (LLMs) that, in the Government’s view, embed or prioritize ideological agendas—specifically diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) concepts—over factual accuracy. It establishes two “Unbiased AI Principles” (truth-seeking and ideological neutrality) for LLMs used by the federal government, requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue implementing guidance, and mandates contract terms and agency procedures to enforce compliance. The order applies to federal procurement and internal development of LLMs (with some national security exceptions) and is implemented through guidance and contract provisions rather than new legislation. The likely effects are: federal procurement requirements will change how vendors sell LLM-based services to the government; agencies will need new review and contracting procedures; vendors may disclose design documentation (system prompts, specs, evaluations) to demonstrate compliance; and some safety or bias-mitigation practices tied to DEI concepts may be restricted in systems purchased by the government. Implementation timing depends on OMB guidance and available appropriations, and the order does not create a private legal right to sue the government.