California Gov. Gavin Newsom is recalibrating his approach to artificial intelligence as he positions for a potential 2028 presidential run, moving from tech-friendly pragmatism toward a more populist message focused on worker protections and consumer risks. After vetoing a 2024 bill that would have imposed broad liabilities and “kill switch” requirements on AI firms, Newsom has signed an executive order to assess AI’s impact on jobs, proposed more antitrust enforcement funding and tapped former CFPB Director Rohit Chopra to lead a key state consumer agency. The shift tracks growing bipartisan unease with AI’s effects on costs, privacy and safety—even as state and local coffers court data-center “hyperscalers.” It also contrasts with President Donald Trump’s recent decision to halt a planned federal AI order over competitiveness concerns with China. Other 2028 hopefuls are testing their own formulas, from tighter data-center conditions to incentive pauses. With 71% of Americans saying AI is advancing too fast, Newsom’s recalibration underscores how AI policy is fast becoming a litmus test for national contenders.
Related article:
