DeSantis warns of concentrated tech power, previews state approach to AI and data centers
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Summary
Governor criticized large tech firms' control over speech and said Florida will pursue state-level AI and data-center policies to protect consumers and children, and to avoid federal preemption of state actions.
Governor Ron DeSantis used the event to lay out a preview of Florida’s approach to artificial intelligence and technology policy, criticizing concentrated power in a handful of large tech companies and signaling state-level protections.
DeSantis said some tech companies can affect electricity pricing and consumer information: "I think it's wrong if they come in to build a data center and then charge the normal customers higher for electricity. We're not gonna let that happen," he said. He also warned against uses of likeness and disinformation and said the state would move to "defend our right to be able... to basically protect your freedom."
On AI specifically, DeSantis criticized proposals for federal-only control and said Florida will roll out its own policies: "there's some people saying, well, the federal government should just take over... I reject that." He said the state would prepare a "really robust" package of measures that put Floridians first and protect children from exploitation.
The governor framed these remarks within a broader economic pitch about Florida's rankings, manufacturing and job creation, arguing the state has a lean government that can act to shield residents from harmful practices by large firms.
Officials did not provide draft regulatory language or a timeline for the AI package at the event.