Democrats see potential advantage in regulating AI technology.
Democrats have a chance to regain control of Congress this November, and if they succeed, they’ll face a critical decision on how to tackle one of the most complex and emerging issues in politics: AI.
Current polls suggest that Democrats could flip at least one chamber in the midterm elections, which would return committee leadership to their hands. This shift could lead to increased scrutiny of AI companies. Key Democratic figures on influential committees have already indicated their intent to challenge the industry regarding tax incentives related to data centers and recent cybersecurity breaches. If they take control, they would have the power to set committee agendas, summon CEOs for testimony, and demand transparency about corporate operations.
AI is becoming a prominent topic in campaign advertisements, especially as the expansion of data centers has prompted packed local meetings across the political spectrum. While some leaders have favored a hands-off approach to regulation, public sentiment reveals widespread anxiety about AI’s potential effects on jobs, education, and daily life. The extent and nature of oversight remain uncertain.
Jesse Lehrich, a Democratic strategist with a background in tech accountability, believes the AI issue is ripe for engagement. “The question is whether Democrats are ready to seize that opportunity,” he notes. The challenges surrounding AI encompass a range of topics, from monitoring the development of advanced models to addressing job displacement and the energy demands of data centers. Lawmakers from both parties are still determining their positions, and early proposals in Congress have yet to find common ground.
Rob Flaherty, a former deputy campaign manager for Kamala Harris and a cohost of a podcast with Lehrich, points out that many lawmakers were initially caught off guard by AI. “For a long time, Democrats hesitated to address it, either due to a lack of understanding or fear of the financial influence from the AI sector,” he explains. However, as AI becomes increasingly relevant to voters, “there’s a significant opportunity for those who can articulate a vision for the future that resonates with the public.”
Flaherty recently co-founded a super PAC focused on AI issues, launching a $4 million ad campaign targeting Republican candidates in key House races, framing them as out of touch with AI concerns, including online safety for children and data center impacts. The group is also looking ahead to the 2028 presidential election, aiming to refine Democratic messaging to better connect with voters.
While data centers have emerged as a visible AI issue, Flaherty’s polling indicates that sweeping bans on state AI regulations, often advocated by certain political figures, are even less popular. Democratic donor and venture capitalist Ron Conway has expressed regret over funding a pro-AI super PAC, highlighting a shift in sentiment.
As of June, the pro-AI PAC had spent nearly $45 million, with a significant amount still available. “At some point, voter sentiment outweighs financial backing,” Flaherty asserts. Even centrist Democratic governors like Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro have recently adopted stronger stances against AI. Newsom issued an executive order for an AI “kill switch” after previously vetoing similar legislation, while Shapiro has changed his position on data centers.
Democrats are in a strong position to leverage the growing discontent with AI, especially since the anti-regulation stance of some Republicans has limited their options. While a few GOP figures have taken a more cautious approach to AI, Lehrich argues that Trump’s embrace of the industry presents a significant political opportunity for Democrats.
A comprehensive AI regulatory framework could involve integrating independent researchers into advanced labs, implementing upfront safety checks, and increasing liability for tech companies regarding the impact of their tools on children and potential discrimination. Lawmakers might also explore ways for AI companies to contribute to addressing job displacement and other societal impacts.
Although AI isn’t the primary issue driving voters to the polls, Flaherty suggests that it should be viewed as a narrative rather than just a topic. “AI represents a story about politicians being influenced by industry, where a few individuals profit at the expense of the public,” he explains. “It aligns with the current national sentiment.”
The specifics of AI policy are still being debated, but Flaherty warns that Democrats could lose ground if they don’t take bold actions. Voters are open to significant changes, and if politicians limit themselves to basic initiatives like retraining programs, “we risk missing the creativity and ambition that this moment demands.”
