DeSantis Asserts Florida’s Right to Regulate AI Despite Trump’s National Directive
MIAMI, Fla. — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared on January 3, 2026, that the state retains the authority to regulate artificial intelligence technologies, pushing back against a recent executive order from President Donald Trump that seeks to establish a uniform national AI standard. DeSantis’s stance highlights a growing tension between state-level initiatives and federal efforts to govern the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
President Trump signed the executive order in December 2025, aiming to create a cohesive framework for AI regulation across the United States. The order emphasizes a national standard that would supersede individual state laws, a move intended to streamline innovation and oversight within the burgeoning AI sector. However, DeSantis argued that Florida has “a right to do this,” asserting the state’s prerogative to enact its own rules tailored to local needs and priorities.
Speaking at Florida International University’s Wall of Wind facility, which focuses on wind engineering research, DeSantis underscored the importance of state sovereignty in technology governance. The governor’s remarks come amid a broader national conversation about balancing innovation with consumer protection and ethical considerations in AI deployment.
While the federal government moves to consolidate AI oversight, states like Florida are exploring their own regulatory paths. This divergence reflects the complexity of governing AI, a technology that is rapidly transforming sectors from healthcare to transportation. The U.S. Department of Commerce, which plays a key role in the federal AI strategy, has advocated for coordinated policies to foster innovation while mitigating risks.
In parallel, the Trump administration announced an initiative to recruit 1,000 technologists to form an elite “Tech Force” dedicated to modernizing government through AI adoption. This effort aims to accelerate the integration of AI tools across federal agencies, underscoring the administration’s commitment to maintaining U.S. leadership in technology.
Technological advancements continue apace, with companies like Theia introducing AI-powered solutions that enhance athletic performance by analyzing biomechanics without intrusive sensors. Such innovations exemplify the opportunities AI presents, even as regulators grapple with how best to oversee its development.
Experts note that the evolving regulatory environment will significantly impact how AI shapes daily life and industry practices. The Federal Communications Commission and other agencies are closely monitoring AI’s implications for privacy, security, and economic growth.
DeSantis’s assertion of Florida’s regulatory rights adds a new chapter to the ongoing dialogue about federalism and technology policy. As states assert their roles alongside federal authorities, the United States faces critical decisions on how to balance innovation, safety, and governance in the age of artificial intelligence.
For more information on federal AI initiatives, visit the Office of Science and Technology Policy and the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s AI program.
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