NY Governor Hochul calls for AI to be less evil
| Source: The Verge | Original article
New York Governor Kathy Hochul says AI should be ‘less evil’ as she readies a sweeping tech policy agenda in this election year.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has signalled a fresh tone on artificial‑intelligence policy, declaring that AI should be “less evil.” Speaking in a rapid‑fire interview ahead of the 2026 election, the governor warned that the technology’s growing influence demands a more responsible approach. Hochul, who has already taken firm stances on a range of tech issues, framed the comment as a call for ethical safeguards, transparency and accountability in AI development and deployment.
The remark matters because New York is both a major market for AI firms and a legislative laboratory for tech regulation. State‑level actions can set precedents that ripple nationally, especially as federal policymakers grapple with AI’s economic and security implications. Hochul’s positioning also dovetails with broader concerns voiced by European regulators and central banks about AI‑driven systemic risk, underscoring the political urgency of the issue in an election year.
Observers will watch whether Hochul’s stance translates into concrete measures, such as proposals for AI auditing, data‑privacy enhancements, or funding for responsible‑AI research. Legislative calendars suggest possible bills could surface in the upcoming session, while the governor’s office may seek partnerships with academic and industry groups to shape standards. Additionally, the upcoming November elections could amplify the debate, as candidates are likely to adopt AI policy positions to appeal to both tech‑savvy voters and those wary of algorithmic harms.
Stakeholders should monitor New York’s policy agenda, any executive orders issued by Hochul’s administration, and the response from the state’s tech sector. The governor’s “less evil” framing could become a rallying point for broader U.S. discussions on how to balance innovation with societal safeguards.
Sources
Back to AIPULSEN