2028 Democrats like Newsom and Pritzker lean in on AI safety as Washington stalls

AxiosSeptember 18, 2026en

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a presumptive presidential candidate, is getting louder on AI, releasing an executive order amid the Washington stalemate. Why it matters: Democrats with national profiles this week are seizing on AI alarm, making their positions clear and Newsom – despite some deference shown to other 2028 contender Kamala Harris – wasn't going to sit this one out. Driving the news: Newsom on Friday issued an executive order tackling two major topics of debate inside the beltway this week -- independent auditors and kill switches. He did so taking direct aim at Washington: "With Donald Trump and Congress asleep at the wheel, Governor Gavin Newsom is once again taking the lead t

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