Digital news outlet NOTUS reported on Thursday that senior U.S. officials held preliminary discussions with AI companies about the potential for the government to buy some shares in their firms.

While the planning is ongoing and details are in flux, discussions have centered on having the firms voluntarily cede the shares to the government, the report said.

US administration is exploring stakes in major AI firms days after Sen. Bernie Sanders proposed public ownership of leading AI companies.

Trump has made AI a focal point, signing executive orders meant to spur growth even while public sentiment remains mixed.