AI becomes a political wedge issue, creating odd bedfellows across parties

Artificial intelligence is increasingly emerging as a key wedge issue — not between the major political parties, but within them.

Artificial intelligence is increasingly emerging as a key wedge issue — not between the major political parties, but within them.

On the right, MAGA populists and influencers are warning about the potential hazards of unrestricted AI development as President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance and their administration have pushed for minimal regulations in the name of beating China to potential society-altering advancements.

On the left, progressives are fighting against potential AI-fueled job losses and a further consolidation of financial power by Big Tech as center-left Democrats weigh the unknown downsides of technological advancement with major investments in their states and a need to stay competitive in a rapidly changing global economy.

Potential 2028 presidential contenders — from Vance and Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley on the right, to California Gov. Gavin Newsom and New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on the left — are all carving out unique lanes on the issue, creating some unusual bedfellows.

Ocasio-Cortez is among the potential 2028 candidates who have highlighted growing concerns in recent weeks. Last month, she raised the potential for a market downturn fueled by what some are calling an AI bubble, warning at a congressional hearing of “2008-style threats to economic stability.”