The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has removed several blog posts authored during Lina Khan’s tenure that addressed the risks of artificial intelligence (AI) and the role of open-source models. These deletions, first reported by Wired, suggest a significant shift in the agency’s approach to AI regulation.

Removed Posts and Their Content

Among the deleted content was a July 2024 post titled “On Open-Weights Foundation Models,” which advocated for a more permissive approach to AI development. The post argued that releasing AI model weights publicly would allow smaller players to bring their ideas to market, fostering innovation. This position aligned with the Trump administration’s AI Action Plan, which supports open models.

Another removed post, dated October 2023, titled “Consumers Are Voicing Concerns About AI,” highlighted public apprehensions regarding AI’s impact on privacy and security. A third post, published on January 3, 2025, titled “AI and the Risk of Consumer Harm,” discussed potential harms such as commercial surveillance, fraud, and discrimination enabled by AI technologies.

Implications of the Removals

The removal of these posts raises questions about the FTC’s commitment to transparency and consumer protection. Critics argue that the deletions may violate the Federal Records Act and the Open Government Data Act, which require federal agencies to preserve and make accessible records documenting government activities.

Furthermore, the deletions may indicate a broader shift in the FTC’s regulatory stance under the current administration. While the Trump administration’s AI Action Plan supports open-source AI development, the removal of posts advocating for such models suggests a potential divergence between policy and practice.

Ongoing Developments

As of now, over 200 posts authored by Khan remain on the FTC’s website, including those related to AI enforcement actions and competition in the generative AI market. However, the recent deletions have drawn attention to the agency’s evolving approach to AI regulation and its implications for consumers and the tech industry.