Maryland Gov. Wes Moore has announced the formation of a bipartisan group of governors dedicated to addressing the escalating concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. Moore, a Democrat, stated that the group is necessary to fill a perceived void in federal leadership on the rapidly evolving technology.
In a recent interview, Moore expressed criticism of both the White House and Congress for their handling of AI issues. He characterized a recent meeting between President Donald Trump and AI executives as a "billionaire boys club" and noted that Congress departed Washington for midterm elections without enacting legislation to address AI.
"The federal government has a unique leadership role that they have to play and that includes both the White House and Congress," Moore said. "In the absence of that, the governors cannot just sit on our hands."
As the current chair of the National Governors Association, Moore will partner with co-chair Republican Gov. Mike Braun of Indiana to develop an AI framework. He indicated that other governors from both parties are expected to join the initiative.
Moore highlighted the growing urgency of AI's potential threats, citing increasingly dire warnings from tech executives. He observed that state governments have demonstrated more activity than the federal government in addressing AI, although their influence is limited on a technology with national and global reach.
Several governors have already taken steps to establish standards for AI. In the past month, governors in Maryland, California, Illinois, Oregon, and Virginia have issued executive orders or taken other measures. Republican governors, including Spencer Cox of Utah and Greg Abbott of Texas, have also acted on AI-related issues, such as regulating data center development.
In contrast, legislative action in Washington has been slower. While some lawmakers, such as Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), have initiated discussions or investigations into AI, broad consensus on a legislative response remains elusive.
During his administration, Trump has largely downplayed AI fears, emphasizing the importance of maintaining technological competitiveness, particularly with China. He recently touted a voluntary accord with tech leaders, which he described as "morally binding."
Moore questioned the focus of the White House meeting, asking, "Who in the room was advocating for more transparency or more regulatory guardrails?" He asserted that the president's actions did not diminish the need for the governors' initiative.
The debate over AI policy could become a significant factor in the upcoming presidential campaign. Moore, who is running for reelection in Maryland, has stated he is not pursuing a presidential bid.
The development of data centers, once viewed as economic assets, has become a point of contention. Moore himself signed an executive order last month establishing new regulations for data centers in Maryland and has called for the repeal of a tax exemption passed before his term began.
Moore acknowledged the rapid pace of technological advancement, noting that elements of an AI executive order he signed in 2024 are already becoming outdated. He concluded by emphasizing his commitment to core values despite the evolving technological landscape.