OpenAI appoints former Army Secretary Dan Driscoll to security role

OpenAI announced on Monday, Nov. 2, 2026, the hiring of Dan Driscoll as the company's first Senior Counselor for National Security Modernization. Driscoll, who served as the 26th Secretary of the United States Army from February 2025 until September 2026, will advise the organization on the integration of artificial intelligence within defense and cybersecurity sectors.

In this newly created position, Driscoll is tasked with guiding OpenAI’s leadership and partners on the responsible application of AI technologies. His work will involve assisting internal teams in understanding the operational requirements of global security institutions and collaborating with government officials and international partners to promote the adoption of what the company describes as democratic AI.

CEO Sam Altman welcomed the appointment, stating that the United States has an opportunity to work with other countries to expand the use of democratic AI. Altman noted that the company aims to strengthen American leadership in the field while ensuring that individuals have a voice in how the technology is developed.

Driscoll stated that national security needs are evolving rapidly and expressed his intent to help the United States and its allies utilize AI responsibly. He added that the technology could assist security personnel by streamlining administrative tasks, synthesizing complex information, and accelerating decision-making processes.

The appointment follows Driscoll’s departure from the Pentagon in September 2026. His new role at OpenAI aligns with the company's broader strategy to engage with defense agencies, building upon existing initiatives such as the Daybreak program, which focuses on cyber resilience and the protection of essential services.