Florida Republicans failed to pass legislation regulating artificial intelligence (AI) by the end of their legislative session on Friday, despite strong backing from Governor Ron DeSantis. The proposed “AI Bill of Rights” would have mandated disclosure when AI chatbots interact with customers and prohibited their use in licensed mental health counseling.
The bill’s failure stems from a clear divide within the party, directly influenced by former President Donald Trump’s public support for the tech industry. Trump has openly positioned himself as pro-AI, issuing executive orders to protect the sector and warning against state-level regulation. The White House has communicated its opposition to state AI laws to legislators nationwide.
Florida House Speaker Daniel Perez explicitly stated his chamber’s preference for federal oversight of AI, signaling deference to the Trump administration’s stance. This reflects a broader national trend: while some Republicans, like DeSantis, express concerns about job displacement and economic impacts from AI, Trump champions minimal regulation to ensure U.S. dominance in the technology race.
This split within the Republican Party complicates its existing coalition, which includes tech billionaires alongside populist voters wary of AI’s potential harms. The disagreement underscores a growing tension between free-market proponents and those prioritizing economic security.
The current situation demonstrates how Trump’s influence continues to shape Republican policy, even after leaving office, forcing internal conflicts over emerging technologies. This split will likely persist as the party navigates the complex implications of AI development.
