Trump Base Divided Over Federal AI Regulation Push
Trump Supporters Split Over Federal AI Regulation
A Growing Rift Over AI and States’ Rights
The debate over artificial intelligence (AI) regulation is stirring divisions within the Republican Party, particularly among supporters of former President Donald Trump. While Trump has consistently portrayed AI as a critical growth opportunity for the US economy, calls to curtail state-level regulation are facing notable opposition from his own base.
The Federal Push: Preempting State AI Laws
Recently, Trump asked Congress to block states from enacting their own AI laws. At the forefront of this push is David Sacks, the White House’s AI advisor and a prominent Silicon Valley investor. Sacks and other tech advocates are urging lawmakers to include federal preemption of certain state AI regulations in key upcoming defense legislation.
Draft Executive Order and Legal Strategy
In tandem, the White House has circulated a draft executive order. This measure would allow the Justice Department to challenge state AI laws it views as unconstitutional. However, the effort has encountered resistance, echoing a previous congressional dispute when similar proposals were considered earlier this year.
Populist Conservative Backlash
Prominent figures among populist conservatives are raising concerns about overriding state authority. Mike Davis, a lawyer and close Trump ally leading a tech-skeptic advocacy group, warned Republican legislators about the risk of a “major conservative grassroots backlash” if federal law blocks state efforts to oversee AI.
Steve Bannon, influential within MAGA circles, criticized attempts to embed the provision in legislation without public debate, rallying listeners on his podcast to oppose the move. Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene also voiced support for state rights on social media, emphasizing states’ roles in legislating on AI and other issues.
States Advance Their Own AI Rules
Meanwhile, states led by both Democrats and Republicans are moving forward with their own AI safety regulations. New York and California are working on laws requiring tech firms to implement robust safeguards for AI-powered products. Arkansas and Florida, controlled by Republicans, are also weighing proposals for new rules.
Congressional Outlook and Compromises
Earlier this year, opposition led to the removal of a federal provision that would have restricted state AI legislation from Trump’s tax bill. Now, federal advocates are attempting to reconcile with critics by offering compromises, such as improving transparency and protecting children online.
Still, legislative support appears tepid; Congressman Mike Rogers, the top Republican on the House Armed Services Committee, publicly opposed including the AI provision in the National Defense Authorization Act, weakening its prospects in Congress.
What’s at Stake for GOP Tech Policy
The battle over AI regulation highlights a broader rift within the GOP, as pro-business interests from the tech sector clash with populists seeking tougher oversight and autonomy for states. The outcome will shape the US approach to AI governance in the years ahead.
