Labor Leaders Blast Gavin Newsom Over AI, Demand More Regulation
SACRAMENTO, California — In a bold display of unity, top labor leaders from across the nation have delivered an ultimatum to California Governor Gavin Newsom: regulate artificial intelligence (AI), or face serious repercussions in the 2028 election.
At a recent news conference, Lorena Gonzalez, president of the California Labor Federation, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “It’s time that the governor listened to us. If he doesn’t want to talk to us? Well, when he’s on the campaign trail, he can talk to my colleagues around the nation.”
A Broadside on Newsom
This gathering marked a significant moment for labor leaders, including representatives from the AFL-CIO, one of the nation’s most influential labor organizations. Gonzalez criticized Newsom for failing to align with labor interests, accusing him of siding with “his Big Tech billionaire friends.” The leaders from key states such as Iowa, Nevada, North Carolina, and Georgia echoed her sentiments.
Warnings of an AI Crisis
AFL-CIO President Liz Shuler warned of an impending “crisis” due to AI in the workplace, conditioning their support for Newsom’s potential presidential campaign on his commitment to regulating AI. “Just remember, governor, that there is no fate but what we make,” stated Charles Wishman, head of the Iowa AFL-CIO, urging Newsom to take action that could influence the nation.
As a show of determination, labor leaders have vowed to follow Newsom during his presidential campaign events, with Gonzalez hinting at a lack of motivation to support him in 2028 without action on AI regulation.
Newsom’s Response
In response, Newsom’s office defended his administration’s record on workers’ rights and AI regulation. Spokesperson Tara Gallegos asserted that “no Governor has done more” to protect workers while fostering AI innovation, claiming California has implemented the most comprehensive, worker-centered approach to AI in the country.
National Labor Unions Push for AI Regulations
National labor unions have identified AI regulation as a top policy priority, amidst growing public concern over its potential impact. Issues raised include AI-driven layoffs, youth suicides allegedly linked to AI chatbots, and the increasing use of surveillance technologies in workplaces. Layoffs have been particularly pronounced in California, where tech giants like Amazon and Meta are shedding staff in a competitive race for AI dominance.
A Call to Action
Gonzalez characterized the AI issue as “bigger than NAFTA,” highlighting a joint letter sent to Newsom by five AFL-CIO leaders. They warned that without prompt action, the destructive impact associated with AI could mirror the devastation experienced in Rust Belt communities post-NAFTA.
“White collar work will probably be the first tranche, but every job across sectors will be impacted,” Shuler remarked, emphasizing the need for guardrails to prevent what they term “NAFTA 2.0.”
Previous Attempts and Future Proposals
Labor leaders in California have attempted to enact sweeping AI protections for years but have faced resistance from Newsom, who previously vetoed a bill aimed at limiting employers’ reliance on AI for hiring and disciplinary actions.
Despite this, Newsom has defended his approach as a balance between addressing safety concerns and promoting innovation vital for California’s economy, heavily reliant on Silicon Valley taxes. In 2025, he signed an internationally recognized AI safety bill while vetoing labor priorities.
The California Labor Federation recently unveiled its latest AI agenda, proposing measures such as SB 951, which would require employers to notify workers in advance of layoffs due to AI, and SB 947, which seeks to mandate human oversight over AI decision-making processes related to discipline or termination.
Additionally, Gonzalez plans to continue working on AB 1331, a bill aimed at banning surveillance tools in restrooms and public spaces within workplaces. The overarching aim of these proposals is to address surveillance issues, safety concerns related to AI, and the fight against joblessness.
