Full Breakdown
Tensions Rise Over Federal Preemption of State AI Laws
12/17/2025, 7:50:32 AM
Core Event: Governor Evers Urges President Trump to Respect State AI Regulations
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has publicly urged President Donald Trump and Congressional Republicans to refrain from undermining state laws designed to protect families from the harmful uses of artificial intelligence (AI). This call comes in response to reports that the Trump administration is considering federal actions that could preempt state regulations, particularly those enacted in Wisconsin.
Background & Context: Wisconsin's Legislative Actions on AI
In recent years, Wisconsin has taken significant bipartisan steps to address the challenges posed by AI technology. Notable legislation includes the 2023 Wisconsin Act 123, which mandates transparency in political advertisements generated by AI, and the 2023 Wisconsin Act 224, which expands prohibitions against child pornography to include virtual child pornography created using AI. Additionally, the 2025 Wisconsin Act 34 bans the distribution of "deepfake" images intended to coerce or harass individuals.
Official Statements & Responses: Evers' Letter to Trump
In a letter to President Trump, Governor Evers emphasized the importance of state-level regulations in safeguarding children and families from potential exploitation through AI. Evers criticized any federal efforts that might threaten Wisconsin's proactive measures, stating, “It is breathtaking for you to threaten to punish and withhold federal funding from states like Wisconsin for taking decisive, bipartisan action.” He highlighted the bipartisan support for Wisconsin's AI laws and expressed concern that federal preemption could enable predatory behavior.
Criticism & Opposition: Concerns Over Federal Overreach
Evers' letter reflects broader concerns among state officials regarding federal overreach. Many state legislators and governors oppose any attempts to override state laws, arguing that such actions would compromise local efforts to protect residents. Evers pointed out that a recent poll indicates a three-to-one margin of opposition among Americans to federal preemption of state AI regulations.
What's Next: Potential Federal Actions and State Responses
As discussions continue, the Trump administration's plans regarding AI regulations remain uncertain. Evers has called for a halt to any federal initiatives that could undermine state laws, urging the administration to respect the legislative efforts made by states like Wisconsin. The outcome of this conflict could significantly impact how AI is regulated across the United States, particularly concerning the balance of power between state and federal authorities.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mr. President, it is breathtaking for you to threaten to punish and withhold federal funding from states like Wisconsin for taking decisive, bipartisan action to pass common-sense policies that protect Wisconsinites from being potentially being sexually exploited using AI-generated materials or being deceived by political ads made using AI,” — Tony Evers, Governor of Wisconsin
This ongoing debate highlights the complexities of regulating emerging technologies and the critical role that state governments play in addressing local concerns.
