What Next: TBD | Tech, power, and the future ChatGOP?
5 snips
Dec 7, 2025 
In this discussion, tech reporter Gerrit De Vynck dives into the complex relationship between AI regulation and politics, especially within the Republican party. He explores why some states are racing ahead with their AI laws while federal regulations lag behind. De Vynck also highlights the tension between Trump's pro-tech stance and conservative populists who resist it. The conversation touches on the public's growing fears about AI's impact on jobs and mental health, and considers how a potential AI market crash could reshape political dynamics.
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State Patchwork Versus Federal Void
- States have led a patchwork of AI laws because federal action has been minimal and slow.
- Big tech pushed federal preemption to avoid complying with many differing state rules.
From Novelty To Tangible Fear
- Public concern about AI shifted from novelty to tangible harms like job loss and teen safety.
- Reporting on teen suicides after chatbot interactions deepened public fear and attention.
Narrow State Laws, Sparse Federal Rules
- Most state AI laws focus on child safety and deepfakes rather than broad industry liability.
- Federal regulation remains sparse despite many state-level initiatives.