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AI Regulation: California's Balancing Act

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  Published in Politics and Government on Thursday, February 19th 2026 at 6:39 GMT by Los Angeles Times
      Locales: California, Washington, UNITED STATES

AI: Balancing Innovation with Worker Protection

Governor Gavin Newsom's cautious stance on AI regulation signals a broader Democratic struggle: how to embrace the potential benefits of this transformative technology while safeguarding against its potential downsides. Newsom understands that California, as a global innovation hub, cannot afford to be seen as anti-technology. However, the governor is acutely aware of the potential for widespread job displacement and the exacerbation of existing inequalities. He's aiming for a "responsible AI" framework, one that prioritizes worker retraining, ethical development, and data privacy.

The concern extends beyond abstract principles. California's significant workforce in sectors like logistics (the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach are vital to the national supply chain), agriculture, entertainment, and, critically, healthcare, is highly vulnerable to automation driven by AI. The automation of trucking, for instance, poses a direct threat to tens of thousands of California drivers. In healthcare, while AI promises to improve diagnostics and patient care, it also raises questions about the future role of nurses, technicians, and even doctors.

The Enduring Power of Labor

The state's labor unions, historically a core constituency of the Democratic party, are not passively observing these developments. They are actively shaping the conversation, demanding a seat at the table, and pushing for policies that protect their members. The ongoing SEIU negotiations with healthcare providers are indicative of this. The union is not simply fighting for wage increases; it's seeking guarantees that any AI implementation will prioritize patient care and not come at the expense of jobs. The SEIU, along with other major unions like the United Auto Workers (UAW), which are increasingly focused on tech organizing, are advocating for policies such as "right to retraining" - ensuring workers displaced by AI have access to the skills needed for new employment opportunities.

California's unique political landscape amplifies union power. The state's strong pro-labor laws, combined with a large and politically active union membership, give these organizations significant leverage over elected officials. Democratic candidates routinely seek union endorsements, recognizing that union support can be decisive in closely contested elections. Disregarding union concerns, as some previous administrations have learned, carries significant political risk.

The 2028 Presidential Race: A California Preview

While Joe Biden intends to run for reelection in 2024, the speculation about 2028 is already heating up. California, with its 54 electoral votes, will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in determining the next president. The state's diverse population - encompassing a wide range of ethnicities, socioeconomic backgrounds, and political ideologies - makes it a crucial battleground.

Several ambitious California Democrats are positioning themselves for potential runs. Lieutenant Governor Eleni Koutroubias, a seasoned politician with a strong fundraising network, and Attorney General Rob Bonta, known for his progressive policies and legal expertise, are both considered rising stars within the party. Their actions - increased public appearances, strategic endorsements, and policy initiatives - suggest they are laying the groundwork for future campaigns.

However, any challenge to an incumbent president, even one potentially weakened by time, would be uphill. A competitive California primary could expose vulnerabilities and fracture the party, offering an opening for Republican candidates. The dynamics within the California Democratic party - the interplay between the progressive wing, the more moderate establishment, and the increasingly influential labor movement - will be crucial in shaping the 2028 contest.

The coming years will be a period of intense political maneuvering and strategic positioning. The outcome will not only determine the future of California politics but could also have a profound impact on the national stage.