DeSantis Vows to Shield Florida from “Tech Overlords” with New AI Plan

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, during a Jacksonville appearance on July 7, warned against letting “tech overlords” — companies controlling artificial intelligence — take the reins of society, calling the threat highly dangerous. He announced that Florida will instead develop a “coherent” strategy to safeguard human-centered governance and avoid ceding power to unchecked AI platforms.

🧠 Context & Legislative Pivot

• On June 30, DeSantis vetoed HB 827, a bill that would have instructed the state’s Department of Commerce to analyze how automation and AI could affect jobs and communities.

• He argued that by the time such a report is published, it would already be outdated due to the rapid pace of AI change.

• Instead, DeSantis emphasized action over study, signaling that Florida will take a more direct approach to AI oversight rather than rely on research-based policy.

⚠️ Why It Matters

• State-led AI regulation: With federal gridlock on AI rules and Congress rejecting state preemption efforts, Florida’s move could set a precedent .

• Balancing innovation and protection: DeSantis is wary of AI replacing jobs, altering society, or enabling corporate overreach — pushing Florida toward a more protective stance.

• Strategic direction unknown: Without formal legislation, it's unclear if Florida will create oversight boards, data safeguards, or executive orders.