AI Splits Both Parties — and Indiana’s Redistricting Fight Exposes GOP Fractures

Artificial intelligence is emerging as an unexpected fault line within both major U.S. parties, producing unusual alliances and divergent policy approaches as potential 2028 contenders stake out positions.

AI: A cross-party wedge

On the right, the debate pits advocates of light-touch regulation—who argue the U.S. must move quickly to outcompete China—against MAGA-aligned critics who warn that unfettered AI development could produce serious social harms. President Donald Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance and allied conservatives have largely favored minimizing regulatory constraints to accelerate innovation.

On the left, progressives have raised alarms about AI-driven job losses and the concentration of economic power in Big Tech. At the same time, many center-left Democrats and governors welcome AI investment to keep states competitive. That tension is shaping distinct postures among potential presidential hopefuls: Sen. Josh Hawley and Vance on the right, and Gov. Gavin Newsom and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on the left, are all carving out different lanes.

Ocasio-Cortez recently warned of an "AI bubble," telling lawmakers that the technology could pose "2008-style threats to economic stability" if left unchecked. Sen. Chris Murphy has said he fears advanced AI could strain democratic institutions, and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has cautioned that AI may displace white-collar work. By contrast, Newsom—who governs California, home to Silicon Valley—has signed some AI-related laws while vetoing others, arguing regulation must be balanced so the industry can thrive. Governors Josh Shapiro and Gretchen Whitmer have actively promoted data center and AI investments in their states.

Indiana redistricting showdown

Under pressure from President Trump and national Republicans, Indiana's legislature reconvened to consider a congressional map that would likely net the GOP two seats next year. The draft would fragment much of Indianapolis—currently represented largely by Rep. André Carson—into multiple districts and split the northwest Lake Michigan shore represented by Rep. Frank Mrvan.

Although the state House is expected to pass the proposal, the state Senate's support is uncertain. Senate leader Rodric Bray has warned there may not be enough Republican votes, and State Sen. Michael Bohacek publicly opposed the plan after Trump used a derogatory slur when referring to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz. In recent weeks, at least 11 elected Republicans in Indiana have reportedly been targeted by swatting attacks after Trump urged new lines to protect the party's slim House majority.

The redistricting ripple extends beyond Indiana: Democratic Rep. Don Davis said he will run again in North Carolina's 1st District despite a recently approved GOP map. A federal court allowed North Carolina to use the new map in next year's contests.

Other notable developments

• U.S. military action: The White House confirmed a second strike on an alleged drug boat from Venezuela in early September; congressional inquiries into the operation have been opened.
• Diplomatic note: The Kremlin said an envoy was expected to meet with President Vladimir Putin after U.S. officials described recent talks with Ukraine as "very productive."
• Legal and political moves: Former private equity CEO David Gentile had his seven-year sentence commuted. An appeals court upheld a ruling disqualifying Alina Habba from serving as acting U.S. attorney in New Jersey.
• Security concerns: Several of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer's New York offices received bomb threats via email. In GOP politics, a senior adviser to Rep. Nancy Mace resigned, accusing her of abandoning MAGA priorities.
• Health update: The White House released a summary of an October MRI from the president's routine physical, with his doctor describing him as in "excellent" health.

This roundup was compiled by Adam Wollner.