Five Things to Watch on AI Policy in 2026
As we move into 2026, significant developments in AI across the political, policy, and legal landscapes are anticipated. Here are five critical areas to monitor closely:
1. AI on the Ballot
The upcoming elections will see AI issues emerge as crucial topics, from data center buildouts to international relations with China and new AI safety regulations. As voters become increasingly aware of how AI impacts their lives, it is expected to motivate them like never before.
Most Republicans align themselves with a pro-innovation stance, favoring limited regulations, alongside former President Trump. However, there are signs of fractures within this coalition. Meanwhile, Democrats are actively seeking a coherent message regarding AI.
The tech industry, closely tied to Trump, faces high-profile legal challenges that could affect his policies.
2. The Future of Trump’s AI Agenda
Former President Trump has enacted numerous executive orders related to AI, and the focus now shifts to their implementation and enforcement. Attention will be on:
- How the executive order aimed at curtailing state AI laws works in practice, including which states are targeted and the potential fallout with GOP governors advocating for AI regulation.
- An executive order designed to promote scientific R&D while addressing AI energy demands without burdening American consumers.
- Upcoming calls for proposals for an AI export program from the International Trade Administration.
3. AI Rules the World
While the U.S. may favor minimal regulations for AI development, major international players are not following suit. Companies aiming to thrive in lucrative overseas markets must comply with foreign regulations.
With the European Union reducing its ambitious AI Act, it will be interesting to observe how U.S. companies adapt to these evolving rules.
4. White House AI Power Play
In the White House, David Sacks has been a key figure influencing AI policy, pushing through executive orders related to state AI laws and advocating for export control policies advantageous to companies like Nvidia.
Monitoring Sacks’ influence and any emerging voices in AI policy will be crucial. Notably, Vice President JD Vance, who was initially designated to focus on AI matters, has been relatively absent from public discussions since attending a major AI summit in Paris last year. In contrast, Jacob Helberg, the Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, will represent the U.S. at a significant AI summit in India.
5. States Fill the AI Vacuum
As the federal government navigates the complexities of AI regulation, states will continue to introduce and pass numerous AI-related laws. This will likely lead to legal disputes with the federal government.
States such as California, New York, and Colorado are at the forefront, having enacted some of the most comprehensive AI legislation to date.
The Bottom Line
As we look ahead, it is clear that AI will be a dominant theme in 2026, influencing everything from political campaigns to legal battles.
