Cox pushes back on Trump over gambling and AI regulation

Politico

by By Samuel Benson

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Utah Governor Spencer Cox has openly criticized President Donald Trump's approach to regulating gambling and artificial intelligence (AI), calling it "preposterous" for the federal government to override state-level efforts. During an interview at POLITICO’s 2026 Governors Summit, Cox argued that states should retain the authority to address issues like AI regulation, particularly concerning concerns about technology affecting children. He emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with protection, especially when it comes to safeguarding minors from harmful content such as sexualized chatbots. Cox's comments came after the White House warned Utah lawmakers against passing a bill aimed at regulating AI, which Trump has labeled as conflicting with federal policy. The president also issued an executive order in December warning states about the consequences of attempting to regulate the rapidly growing AI industry. Cox, who supports the idea of winning "the AI arms race" with China and Russia, believes that state and local governments should collaborate on building data centers while ensuring responsible use of technology. The governor expressed his concern over Trump's lack of effort to unify the country, particularly following the 2024 Pennsylvania assassination attempt. While Cox initially hoped Trump could bring Americans together, he admitted that hope had been "aspirational," noting that Trump has made it clear he is not focused on unity. Cox also criticized the growing "Heritage American" movement within his party, warning that its nativist message risks alienating voters and leading to electoral losses. Cox’s critique highlights broader tensions between federal authority and state autonomy in addressing emerging technologies and economic policies. His stance underscores the ongoing debate over how to regulate industries like AI and gambling while balancing national interests with local concerns. This matters politically because it reflects the struggle between centralized control and decentralized decision-making, a issue that resonates with voters concerned about both innovation and public safety. Ultimately, Cox’s comments signal a divide within the Republican Party over how to approach technological advancements and governance. His call for responsible AI regulation while supporting U.S. competitiveness in tech positions him as a voice of moderation within his party

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Originally published on Politico on 2/19/2026