Progressive lawmakers in the United States are preparing a multi-pronged plan to regulate artificial intelligence and Big Tech, with an emphasis on protecting individual freedoms as AI becomes more powerful. Rep. Greg Casar, chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, told Semafor that the basic principle is that people should not lose their rights because of technological development. The proposals are expected to focus heavily on privacy, surveillance, employment, and the growing influence of large technology companies.
One major priority is data privacy and government surveillance. Casar wants stronger restrictions on the government's ability to obtain consumer information, including closing a loophole that allows government agencies to acquire people's data indirectly through commercial data brokers. Progressives are also looking at restrictions on AI-enabled surveillance and reforms to warrantless surveillance powers. These issues could potentially create unusual bipartisan alliances with civil-libertarian conservatives who share concerns about government access to personal data.
The Democratic proposals extend beyond privacy. Ideas being discussed include a ban on AI superintelligence, a tax on AI that could finance programs supporting workers affected by automation, and broader regulation of advanced AI systems. At the same time, lawmakers are preparing multiple legislative initiatives, including a bipartisan draft bill from Reps. Lori Trahan and Jay Obernolte and a separate Democratic-led commission expected to develop its own recommendations.
The political pressure could increase substantially if Democrats regain control of the House after the 2026 midterm elections. Casar also points to the growing backlash against AI data-center construction as an early indicator of broader public resistance, particularly if AI-driven automation begins producing more visible job losses. The emerging debate therefore goes beyond regulating AI technology itself: lawmakers are increasingly considering how to distribute the economic benefits of AI while protecting privacy, employment, civil liberties, and democratic accountability.
