- OpenAI’s board refutes claims that CEO Sam Altman was dismissed over AI safety concerns.
- Former board members Helen Toner and Tasha McCauley defend their decision to dismiss Altman.
- The board supports Altman’s transparency and collegiality, emphasizing ongoing efforts for AI regulation.
OpenAI’s board has responded to allegations from former board members Helen Toner and Tasha McCauley about CEO Sam Altman’s dismissal last year. In a statement, the current board members clarified that Altman’s removal was not related to AI safety concerns or his interactions with investors. They praised Altman for his transparency and collegiality in daily operations.
Helen Toner and Tasha McCauley, who left the board when Altman was reinstated, justified their decision to dismiss him, citing the need for independent oversight. Toner criticized Altman for not informing the board about ChatGPT’s launch and for concealing his involvement in the OpenAI startup fund. They also raised concerns about self-governance and the departure of key safety-focused staff.
The current board, led by Bret Taylor, reaffirmed their commitment to effective AI regulation and mentioned ongoing discussions with government officials. They announced the formation of a safety and security committee to oversee the development of the next AI model.
